A 3-year participatory printmaking project centred on responses to place, Ink and Thread will link DADAA Lancelin to other regional arts centres, creating lasting connections between and across the Midwest: from the coast to inland townships, from Carnamah and Mullewa to the communities in between.

Ink and Thread

From Lancelin to Carnamah and Perenjori to Mingenew, our participatory print project is connecting Wheatbelt communities big and small!

A partnership between the North Midlands Project and DADAA, supported by Healthway, this 3-year project focuses on mental health through building printmaking skills and social connections.

The first stage of Ink and Thread saw Margaret River-based printmaker Francesco Geronazzo facilitate community workshops, teaching mono-printing, an easy process which can result in rich textures and effects without requiring a printing press. Community members brought objects that had significance to them and their stories: kitchen gadgets, perfume bottles, car parts. These objects were then turned into prints using gel printing plates. Participants were also provided with printing kits to extend their experience and allow them to do printmaking at home and in their communities outside of the studio environment.

Francesco says “I have been amazed by the communities’ responses to Ink and Thread. The personal stories shared through the printing sessions are really important to people and meaningful for us as well. We love the idea that facilitating art activities and developing skills can empower, connect, and build strong, good quality relationships”.

Next stop is Lancelin at the end of the September and community members are welcome to join. Participants will learn how to transfer personal photos onto etching plates and print them by hand using a printing press.

This year the project continues, including an art camp which will bring participants together for a week of art making and connection, and culminate in an exhibition at the North Midlands Project gallery.

To find out more about Ink and Thread or get involved, contact: julieb@dadaa.org.au