“My cultural memories in photos are from a trip to the deep southern China village within the Guizhou mountains. Whereby I was able to undertake a one off cultural design research experience of a lifetime. I’m sharing these wonderful visual memories as they sit deep in my heart and will be with me forever: even though it brings back chills thinking of the temperature. But at the same time was actually heart-warming, as we were able to watch the Ethic Miao minority elders, undertaking their family heirloom embroidery outside. The elders showed such resilience to the elements of the weather, as they worked happily and talked in local groups around a small fire, whilst they hand embroidered...creating such beautiful embroidery work. The surrounding scenery and the vibrancy of the embroidery thread colours open in their stitch books was awe inspiring. 

As a memento, I purchased the sterling silver embroidered necklace. This necklace reminds me of how extremely fortunate I have been. At the time it was like being in a fairytale; as it was such a beautiful surreal place to be no matter how cold. 

Upon return the students whom I accompanied had to recreate garments for a fashion show and return back in Beijing as part of the UCLAN collaboration with BIFT along with UCLAN  celebration 190th anniversary. Then the garments provided the backdrop display for the global sound movement Journey to the East. Exhibition at the PR1 Gallery.”

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Andrea