Working with women from refugee communities in Wexford, What’s In My Bag explores the changing perceptions of journey, ownership and possessions when refugees flee their homes and countries. 

Taking the symbol of the bag to examine these themes, the communities consider what they left behind, what they brought and what they found along the way. Making bags from recycled denim jeans, the group will embroider patterns and pictures upon the bags, using needlework traditions from their countries of origin. Participants from Irish communities will be invited to share and participate in the embroidery.

This project aims to develop feelings of belonging and self-worth for the women, and validate their stories of escape and refuge. Sharing these stories through creativity brings people from these new communities together, and offers a relatable insight into personal and communal feelings and experiences. 

An exhibition of the bags is planned for the autumn. Details to be announced soon.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.