Using natural fibres to weave practical everyday items has been the focus of our Multicultural weaving exchange at the Bhutanese Community Farm in recent months. The workshop series has included the use of such materials as bamboo, native grasses and dried iris leaves from the garden to weave matting and various types of fibre baskets.

Led by handcrafters from diverse backgrounds, the workshops offered not only an exchange of weaving skills and knowledge, but also an exchange of understanding between different cultures. In the meditative environment of the community gardens, Bhutanese refugee settlers and local community members have exchanged stories of origins, journeys and learning while weaving, all ending the morning feeling all the better for having participated.

The final workshop in this series will be led by indigenous artist Margaret Murray in November. The workshop is already fully booked.