Niche Derby 'craftism' event where you can make your own inspirational dolls

Ria Ghei
By Ria Ghei
Published 31st May 2024, 16:56 BST
Craftism sessions in Derby will guide people how to express themselves through creativity. Doll making sessions will be led by community artist Rita Kappia, whose work has previously been seen at International Women’s Day (Pictured are puppets from 2023) Image Viv LucasCraftism sessions in Derby will guide people how to express themselves through creativity. Doll making sessions will be led by community artist Rita Kappia, whose work has previously been seen at International Women’s Day (Pictured are puppets from 2023) Image Viv Lucas
Craftism sessions in Derby will guide people how to express themselves through creativity. Doll making sessions will be led by community artist Rita Kappia, whose work has previously been seen at International Women’s Day (Pictured are puppets from 2023) Image Viv Lucas | Viv Lucas
The events are a unique blend of encouraging people to be more civic minded, and flexing creative muscles through craftwork

A series of community events that seek to empower and engage locals are taking place over summer.

Derby residents are invited to get involved in ‘Craftism’ sessions in the city on June 1 and June 8, 2024.

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The Saturday events will see people show off their creative flair and make dolls with inspirational messages of encouragement and empowerment. 

Organisers said: ‘Join us to make an empowerment doll to celebrate yourself and a doll for change with a message to inspire Derby City Council policy makers.’

‘Your story can make a difference, when we share our stories of struggle we reduce stigma and call for change.

‘Add your ideas about the local Council policies and services that could be changed to make life better and make our city fairer.

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‘You don't need to be a confident crafter, it's easy to take part and artist Rita Kappia and facilitator Vanessa Boon will support you to express yourself.’

The events hope to get people thinking and talking about the socio-economic landscape in Derby and beyond. 

Rita Kappia is a community artist and educator based in Derby, who will be leading the sessions. 

She specialises in crafting handmade, unique characters she calls ‘Empowerment Dolls’ that carry uplifting messages. 

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Her website says: ‘These unique creations reflect a fusion of my West African heritage, with my mother originating from Ghana and my father from Sierra Leone, along with my upbringing in the UK, resulting in truly distinctive works of art.’

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Here is everything you need to know about Derby Craftism 2024

Saturday June 1, 2024

Dolls For Change at Derby Women's Centre

Address: 4 Leopold Street Derby DE1 2HE

Time: 11am - 2pm

This session is for women, trans inclusive and non-binary participants, children are welcome with an adult. 

Dolls for Change at Derby Silk Mill Festival

Read more: What's On in Derby?

Saturday June 8, 2024

Dolls For Change at Cathedral Green

Address: Derby People’s Assembly Stall, Cathedral Green DE1 3AF

Time: 1pm-4pm

Organisers are in the middle of scheduling upcoming similar events.

Related topics:DerbyPeopleResidentsParticipantsOrganisersCouncilIdeasFusionheritageNewsletter

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