University News Last updated 10 June
More than 750 people visited Birmingham Botanical Gardens for Sketch and Stitch, a community creative event focused on sustainability, and organised by Birmingham City University (BCU).
The free, hands-on event last month (22 May) invited visitors of all ages and skill levels to explore sketching and textile techniques inspired by the natural world, with BCU Fashion and Textiles students on hand to share their knowledge and skills.
From repurposing old clothing to experimenting with natural dyes, attendees were shown how small, practical changes can bring sustainability into everyday life.
“Events like these provide a connection between the community and BCU,” said Sian Riley, Senior Lecturer in Fashion at BCU. “It shows what we do as a university and challenges perceptions of what it means to study Fashion and Textiles.
“By making small changes, like repurposing old clothing or using natural dyes, we can give material a second life. Events like this make the idea of sustainability less daunting and show that small changes can make a difference.”
For BCU's sustainability team, events like Sketch and Stitch are central to changing how people think and behave. “If people consume less, we waste less too," said Elle MacMillan, Sustainability Assistant at BCU.
“We need to teach what sustainability is, and why it matters. Hands-on experiences show that you can slow down and appreciate what's around you.
“For example, we’re turning old lanyards into garden mats for our City South campus, so they’ll have a new lease of life!”
The event also highlighted the growing connection between sustainability and wellbeing.
Nick, a visitor from London who discovered the event during a trip to the Gardens, said: “It's not just about being aware of the environment, it can improve your mental health too.
“I'll be taking some of the ideas and crafts here back to my office to promote better wellbeing and greener habits. Sustainability and wellbeing really can go hand in hand."
Rachel Gillies, Engagement Manager at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, confirmed the event brought learning and wellbeing to the heart of the Gardens.
“Engaging with our living plant collection supports students' explorations into how nature and plants offer alternatives to unsustainable practices within the fashion industry,” she said.
“Sketch and Stitch brought their learning to our visitors, giving them an opportunity to try out new techniques, approaches and materials in a welcoming and informal space.
“School and college students, families, a dementia group and day visitors all took time to engage, many commenting on how inclusive and inspiring they found the event.”
The event is also part of a wider strategic partnership between BCU and Birmingham Botanical Gardens, which sees the two institutions collaborate on events, research and sustainability initiatives that benefit the wider city.