Craft comes to life in apron form

Whether you’re a crafty creature, an art-lover, a foodie or just love everything kitsch, this weekend’s Ballarat Apron Festival is a unique celebration of the humble garment is one not to be missed.

From traditional looks to make nanna swoon, to forward-thinking designs, this event will showcase wearable art in the way of creative displays, a maker’s market and fun and informative workshops.

Ballarat Apron Festival president Emily Stewart explained how the event is the only one of its kind, attracting world-wide attention.

“The humble apron is more than just a piece of fabric to protect the clothes, for many, an apron has unique stories and memories tied up in its strings,” she said.

“Cooking in the kitchen with mum, picking in the garden with grandpa, textiles and embroidery lessons at school. It’s a reminder of family dinners and Christmas lunch and through the craftivist community the apron is now becoming a platform to express ideas on social justice issues and equality.

“Each apron has its own story, and The Ballarat Apron Festival allows people to come together and share those stories.”

There will be many amazing handcrafted aprons, filling eight different competition categories.

Those who would like to create something truly unique themselves will be able to at the Message Up Your Apron workshop in conjunction with the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

“Join craftivists Sharon McDonough and Jem Olsen with artist Kait James to devise, design and execute ways to adapt or update your apron to make it an expression of your own identity and stance on identity, gender politics and social justice issues,” Ms Stewart said.

With activities for children, live music, as well as access to the café and raffle prizes, this is a weekend that will delight many, a complete family-friendly event.

Ballarat Apron Festival is set for the Mining Exchange, 12 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat on Saturday, 29 May – 10am to 5pm, and Sunday 30, May – 10am to 4pm. Entry is $2.

– SPONSORED CONTENT