Ubuntu – I am because we are is a multi-stranded exhibition and workshop programme conceived by Jason Forrest, Sharon Bertram, and Ian Thompson.
The philosophy of ubuntu, originating from the Bantu and Xhosa traditions of southern Africa, and later popularised by Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela, embodies the idea that our humanity is deeply interconnected. The phrase ‘I am because we are’ expresses values of community, collectivism, and shared responsibility, fostering an awareness of how our lives are shaped by those around us.
Join us for Tracing Threads with Black Girl Knit Club, an East London knitting workshop for women and girls. Led by Black Girl Knit Club founders Sicgmone Kludje and Vea Koranteng with designer Sheree Robinson, this hands-on workshop invites participants to knit with vibrant wax print yarns while exploring themes of sisterhood, craft and Ghanaian storytelling.
As part of this workshop participants will be introduced to both finger knitting and arm knitting techniques as a method of experimentation exploring various material qualities and textures. The workshop explores the theme of ubuntu by encouraging participants to make together in a space and ‘Trace their threads’ of who they are and what community represents them through the knitting process. Also inspired by the Black Girl Knit Club Installation "Braided Traditions: Common Thread".
All materials will be provided as part of this collaborative session and all participants will contribute to a larger exhibition piece that will be displayed as part of the ubuntu exhibition at camberwell.
About Black Girl Knit Club
A knitwear collective based in East London by creative industry professionals Sicgmone Kludje and Vea Koranteng. Realising there was a lack of diverse craft spaces or groups, they set up BGKC to create an inclusive space for Black women to gather, share stories and inspire each other. Their aim is to empower the next generation of women and bring diversity to the craft industry - whilst encouraging hand knitting skills and creating a learning platform that highlights the importance of creativity in their community. Since launching they have built an amazing community of 600+ subscribers and members that attend monthly workshops.
BGKC offer workshops, online learning content and collaborative maker sessions. In 2022, they released their first book: ‘Conscious Crafts: Knitting – 20 Mindful Makes to Reconnect Head, Heart and Hands. Brand collaborations include Liberty London, BBC, Samsung, and Crafts Council.
