Where The Jute Was Made
Ukrainians Together in partnership with HMS Unicorn was delighted to start with the Co-Production Sustainability Project with the first visit to Scotland’s Jute Museum at Verdant Works on 24th August. Memorably the 24th of August is the Independence Day of Ukraine.
The jute industry was fundamental to the history of Dundee and the British economy. The Verdant Works has a unique exhibition of the machines that are still used across the world. Industrialisation brought a massive change in how jute was produced, although it needed a large workforce. At the end of the tour, the group watched a short documentary film about the city the life and challenges of that time.
Here is feedback from one of the participants “It was interesting to explore how Dundee became a Juteopolis in the nineteenth century and the jute industry was developed, how tough was the life of those working at the factories as well as how the strong community was formed”.
Weaving Workshop
After the tour, families enjoyed participating in the weaving workshop on producing their pieces of textiles. Ukraine also has a rich history of producing linen at home and a sewing machine that was a way to earn money for the family. Feeling that cultural connection, the group shared the stories of how the textile was made in their communities in Ukraine.
Here is feedback from one of the participants about the workshop “The workshop led to getting an exciting experience of making textiles. It was interesting as well as calming for the mental health of adults and children”.
Cultural Impact of National Dress
On the 12th of October, UkrainiansTogether embarked on a tour of the Kimono Exhibition at V&A Dundee. The group enjoyed the story about making the Kimonos and were excited by the Wedding dress and modern examples from the films.
The group discussed the similarities between Scottish and Japanese cultures and how Kimonos compare with Scottish materials including Tartan. Participants raised a point of how it is quite upsetting to see the section where the Western influence was trying to be forced upon the traditional Kimonos. However, modern designers now are embracing the culture and are becoming more sympathetic to the traditional styles and incorporating them.
Despite the non-ideal weather, everyone had an amazing experience visiting and learning many things about Japanese culture and design. We appreciate the invitation from V&A Dundee and the brilliant guidance from the museum’s team Andrea and Cat.
