Victorian Hairwork Flower Workshop with Sandra Klowak
Learn how to craft with hair, and create Victorian Hairwork Flowers with Sandra Klowak.
The craft of hairwork has been used for centuries to memorialize the dead, and celebrate familial and romantic bonds between the living. Seven Oaks House has an extensive collection of Victorian Hairwork, some of it made and worn locally. Come take inspiration from the museum’s hair wreaths and learn to create a floral keepsake in the historic “wirework” style.
Guided by Winnipeg hair artist and researcher Sandra Klowak, participants will create a 5-petal flower or mini bouquet out of synthetic hair in 2-3 hours. Participants will learn the key “gimping” technique to recreate designs from Seven Oaks House’s hair collection, and learn about local hairwork connections in the Red River Settlement.
All materials are provided and included in the cost of the workshop.
About the Artist:
Sandra Klowak (she/her) creates art with hair and other organic matter, inspired by the historic crafting tradition of Victorian Hairwork. She is fascinated by hair’s ability to immortalize the body through art, as well as its conflicting existence as both coveted and reviled, inviting us to explore concepts of gender, power and more. Klowak lives in Winnipeg (Treaty 1 territory) with her partner, two children and cat. In their spare time she and her family enjoy exploring Manitoba, camping and visiting its many amazing historic museums. Sandra is passionate about preserving local history, and served on the board of Seven Oaks House and Ross House Museums, and on the board of Friends of Lower Fort Garry.
Registration: $55*
Registration is non-refundable and includes all materials and tools. Each participant will leave with a complete 5-petal flower or mini bouquet out of synthetic hair.
*If cost is a barrier to your participation, please reach out to us at sohmuseum@gmail.com.
This project is supported by the Heritage Grants Program from the Government of Manitoba.
