South Asian Folk Art: Shisha

Originating in South Asia centuries ago, shisha is a method of embroidery where small glass mirrors are affixed to fabric using thread, creating a beautiful tapestry of light and reflection. In this workshop, we will have a short history presentation about shisha and South Asian embroidery, and your instructor will also show you how to cut and grind mirror pieces to size that you can use for embroidery! Then we will practice using shisha on either the fabric we will provide or your own clothes. You can use some of the mirror pieces you cut yourself combined with our pre-cut pieces! You will have around three hours of studio time to work on your projects with guidance from your instructor, and you will receive materials to take home to finish your project! About Your Instructor: Hamaila is a Pakistani-American designer, jeweler, and piercer based out of Chicago, IL. After her formal science-oriented degree, she sought knowledge in any subject that interested her. Welding classes led to jewelry classes and, once there, she never looked back. She firmly believes good design can make the world a better, more equitable place for all and contributes by making small beautiful things that change how we perceive and experience the world. Hamaila is a TEDX speaker, Austin Design Week participant, Arcosanti alum, and currently working towards opening a jewelry and piercing co-op in the South Side of Chicago.