Recently I had the incredible opportunity to film my new course 'Upcycling with Sashiko Embroidery' with Domestika. Domestika's creative headquarters are based in Spain, and from the moment I landed every aspect of this journey was filled with adventure, fun, creativity, and inspiration.
The filming process with Domestika was so much fun. The team was incredibly professional and supportive, making me feel at ease on the set. We had a lot of fun working together, shared delicious lunches, and their positive energy made the experience both smooth and enjoyable. It was wonderful to collaborate with such talented individuals who share a passion for creativity and education.
During my time in Madrid, I had the opportunity to visit both the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia Museum—two of the most iconic art institutions in the country. The Prado’s vast collection of masterpieces, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and Titian, is immense and a little overwhelming. It was breathtaking to see many of the artworks I had studied in text books in the flesh, to be able to see the fine details of the brushwork and appreciate the immense size of some of the canvases.
The Reina Sofia Museum, on the other hand, offered a different kind of inspiration. Home to Picasso’s "Guernica" and a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, the museum was a powerful experience. Guernica has been one of my most favourite artworks since I learnt about it in Grade 9 Art (when I was 15), and the scale of the mural is impressive. Seeing it up close meant I could take in all the details that can be missed when looking at it as a reproduction in a book.
The Museum also had an exhibit of artworks by contemporary Spanish artist Antoni Tapies. I enjoyed seeing the inclusion of textiles in his room size paintings and sculptures. His innovative approaches using cloth sparked new ideas that I’m excited to explore further in my own work.
Both museums left a lasting impact on me, adding a special layer of creativity and reflection to my filming experience.
Beyond the fun, the experience was a profound learning opportunity. I gained invaluable insights into the production process, from the technical aspects of filming to the nuances of presenting content effectively. The Domestika team provided excellent guidance, and I learned so much from their expertise. This knowledge will undoubtedly enhance my future projects and enrich my approach to teaching and creating.
I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing the finished production. The anticipation of seeing everything come together—capturing the essence of what we’ve worked on—is incredibly thrilling. I can’t wait to share the final result with all of you and to see how the project will be received!
Spain is a country renowned for its rich culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality. Filming there was not just a professional venture; it was a delightful immersion into a new environment and an experience that will stay with me for years to come. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity and excited to see how our hard work will be reflected in the final production.
The course will be released on Friday 16 August 2024.
