Working towards Age Well Festival and Purple Parade
The first workshop involved making banners in honour of Women’s History Month. More than 40 women gathered to create six powerful posters showcasing how women have historically used courage and creativity to make their voices heard. The designs highlighted significant moments in history, including the Matchgirls Strike of the 1880s, and the Greenham Common and Grunwick protests of the 1980s, underlining women's enduring role in driving social change.
The workshop created space for the participants to share their experiences of needing to speak up and be counted. Using their hands as inspiration, they reflected on their roles as carers and providers, and their desire to be seen as individuals in an ageist society.
The culmination of their efforts was a bold and unifying message for the banner: Hands up for change!
Here is some of the feedback we received about the workshop:
“I have enjoyed today so much. It has been ages since I made anything, and it looks beautiful!”
“My great-great-aunt was a Suffragette, so being part of this has meant a lot. I feel inspired…”
“When I looked at my hands, I saw all the different things I am—a mother, a carer, and a gardener. Thank you for reminding me.”
“I chose the Om symbol because my hand represents the importance of being at one with ourselves. The writing on the hand in henna is very expressive in my culture. I loved it.”
“It was such a peaceful, happy space to be in. Chatting and making, and when it all came together, I was amazed at how good it looked. The message made me think about what we can achieve.”
