Join internationally renowned Sujata Shah with like-minded passionate quilters looking out towards the entire Atlantic Pyrenean mountain range. This perfect soothing setting combined with focused expert instruction will give you long lasting joy and motivate you to undertake more ambitious quilted art works.
About this course:
Set amidst the serene Béarnais countryside, an unknown part of SW France, with its rolling hills, vineyards and majestic Atlantic Pyrénées, this retreat offers the perfect environment to unwind, connect with nature, and unleash your creativity. Enjoy a weeklong immersive stitching experience unlike any other.
Kawandi – Word for a Siddi Quilt
Join us for a transformative quilting retreat with renowned quilter and designer, Sujata Shah, as we delve into the rich history and cultural significance of Kawandi. Originating from the African diaspora of India, Kawandi are steeped in tradition and serve as a canvas for personal expression. Under Sujata’s expert guidance, participants will explore the meditative art of stitching, learning traditional techniques to craft their own unique Kawandi. Drawing from her daily practice of stitching to capture thoughts and memories in real-time, Sujata will lead you in weaving together your personal narrative using basic sewing essentials.
In addition to creating your own Kawandi, you will have the opportunity to design a fabric collage inspired by Kawandi techniques, further expanding your creative horizons. Whether you are a seasoned quilter or a beginner, this retreat promises a journey of self-expression and artistic exploration.
Quilting Retreat – Programme Outline
Saturday
4.00 – Check-in time from 4pm onwards. Guests arrive, settle in and explore Clos Mirabel
6.30 – Welcome drinks and dinner
Sunday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10:00 – 1:00 Introduction – morning lecture/slide show –a short history of Siddis in India, Sujata will share quilts and explain the structure and technique.
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2:00 – 4:00 Live demo and begin stitching of Kawandi, demo on Fula
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Monday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10:00 – 1:00 Morning lecture – Stories in Stitches Slide Show, discuss quilting in India, continue stitching
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2:00 – 4:00 Demo on pillars of the Kawandi, continue stitching.
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Tuesday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10:00 to 1:00 Discussions and Demo on Tikli. Continue stitching. Participants will reflect on the stitching practice and personal style.
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2:00 to 4:00 Q/A Continue Stitching
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Wednesday – day off
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
We suggest wine tasting in a local vineyard, exploring Pau or beyond
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Thursday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10:00 – 1:00 Demo on Kawandi collage – student will create a raw edge abstract collage inspired by the surroundings of the retreat using shared fabric scraps from fellow stitchers.
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2:00 – 4.00 Continue stitching on the collage or Kawandi
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Friday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10:00 – 1:00 Q/A demo on finishing the “Belly” of the Kawandi. Discussions on how to start and execute a larger Kawandi.
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2:00 – 4:00 Q/A Continue stitching. Studio clean up & preparing for the evening exhibition.
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Saturday Buffet Breakfast and departure (Check-out time 11am)
Non-participating guests: We are more than happy to welcome accompanying partners, family or friends. There are plenty of activities to experience around Clos Mirabel, that will make your holiday unforgettable Click here for more information.
The Art Studio, offers a spacious open plan layout of 75 m2. It is available at all times during your stay. Click here for more information.
All accommodation must be booked directly with Atelier Clos Mirabel see below:
