Awbury: Lest We Forget Tile Workshop – A Way to Share our Stories

Sponsored by: Lest We Forget Slavery Museum

in partnership with Karen Singer Tileworks and Awbury Arboretum

Something deep is changing in our city and in our neighborhoods. Our hope is that it leads to deeper understanding and empathy. 

Inspired by the issues of 2020- the Pandemic, its exposure of systemic injustice, and the murders of unarmed black people by police that have rocked the country- this workshop aims to stimulate open and honest conversations about race and race relations, from all of our perspectives. Open to people aged 7 to 97. No prior experience is necessary, just an interest in participating. This workshop includes two dates: The October 15th event will begin with a presentation by Gwen Ragsdale, of the Lest We Forget Slavery Museum. Gwen’s talk will feature artifacts that bring to life the history of slavery and race relations. Then artist Karen Singer will introduce the project and lead a discussion about ideas and options for making the tiles. Participants will each sculpt a ceramic tile plaque suitable for outdoor installation. Letter stamps and templates will be provided, and participants will learn the basics of sculpting. Participants will also be able to add color and glaze their piece. On December 3rd, participants will be invited back to the Cope House Galleries to view the finished tiles on display, participate in a brief sharing of stories, and take their finished tile home. Number of participants: 20.  Registration is required. Registration available here. Cost:  In order to be inclusive of as many people as possible, we are offering tickets on a sliding scale; you may choose your price for this event: $20, $35 or $50 per person. Proceeds support the Lest We Forget Museum. The workshop will take place outdoors at Awbury Arboretum, on the large tented patio behind the Cope House (1 Awbury Rd, Philadelphia, PA). The space is large enough for at least 20 people to work together in a safe, socially distanced setting. Participants are required to wear masks.