The Whakairo Cowl drops this Friday on @hi.ravelry and on @themakingthingsapp at 6pm CST.⠀
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I felt weird to announce a new pattern release when such important conversations (“online squabble” to some) are happening and will continue to happen. But then I released that in my work as a designer, I am presented an opportunity to weave anti-oppression into my art.⠀
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As a Takatāpui (queer) Māori artist, knitwear design is my medium for honouring my heritage and carrying the stories, values and lessons forward. I’d say that indigenous resistance and decolonization is a good place to start in anti-oppression work.⠀
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But I have my own set of privileges and biases that I too have to unpack and address. In what ways has my work excluded people and has caused harm? It’s been on my mind a lot these past few weeks. So I’m starting where I can: getting podcast episodes transcribed. Videos captioned. Garment designs graded up to nine sizes. Distributing my resources and network with my design students to help them grow even more. Donating to charities and causes that do the offline work that I am unable to do.⠀
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We’re all doing our best. Progress over perfection.
#arohaknitsdesigns #transformyouryarn #spreadingaroha ...
