Clare Satow, who set up BQFW, has spent the last 25 years working on arts projects with a wide range of people in educational, community and health settings. Participation and education continue to play an important part in the life of the workshop. Gateshead, where Bill Quay is situated, has a long record of using the arts to enhance community development, education, health and well being. Establishing BQFW has already involved several local people in a collaborative effort - whether learning to print and be part of the production line, steering the workshop towards a website, business model, developing ideas for making packaging from recycled materials or devising a drying rack. Opportunities for training and sub-contracting the printing of house fabrics make it possible for others to be part of the production line of the workshop. Early in 2009, a children's fabric workshop will build on the fresh and original contribution of young people through drawing and designing which will result in a length to be sold through the artist's fabric range. This range will also include pieces made by individuals or groups where the subject matter is part of the Conversational family of fabric design - reflecting local, topical, and contemporary issues and icons viewed obliquely, with a colourful eye and wit. In a small way these will add to the global tradition of celebratory and propagandist fabrics. BQFW is often involved in local events. Recently, as part of the Five Arts Cities project, a fairtrade banner was made with members of the Co-operative group. The artist's fabric collection is intended to showcase diversity of design and subject matter and to demonstrate the richness that collaboration can add to both the experience of making and to the finished product itself. Details of the tariff for production and sale through the Artist's range will include - Workshop hire Sales commission Materials supplied Facilitation fees Accommodation For more information please contact us.

Work experience student working in BQFW  Cassop Primary School red riding hood book  Fairtrade banner made with Co-op members

© Bill Quay Fabric Workshop

Design by Michael Mortimer | Photography by Steve Conlan

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