What an incredible trip I had to Alice Springs for the Beanie Festival. Participating crafters sent 6500 beanies to the festival this year that were exhibited throughout the Araleun Arts Centre! I really enjoyed facilitating three bird weaving workshops next door at Central Craft, as I felt enfolded in a dynamic creative space. There was a buzz of teachers and participants who were engaged in crafting activities such as rug making, knitting, eco dying, basketry, raffia hat making, spinning and so much more! Pru Raymond (Master Knitter) and I had fun at the opening night eating, chatting, listening to music and looking at the colourful beanie display. There were volunteers in white gloves that helped the audience try on beanies which added a wonderful performative aspect to the night. I will be back to this inspiring festival that was run on the goodwill of 106 volunteers in 2023.
I was supported to visit the Alice Springs Beanie Festival via a Quick Response Grant.
Jodie Goldring 
Wow Jodie what a fantastic display of creativity, colour and collection of collaborators!!.
What a wonderful and happy event no wonder you are already looking forward to doing it again next year😀
Congratulations and love from us ❤️
Thanks Dad!
Hi Jode What a fabulous event !! You look so happy as do all the group 😀 I just love the hats.. did you make the one with the woven (brain?) pipe and green creative energy !!😅 Also your birds are lovely as usual, so happy for you. I put a comment on your website as well. Love you xxx D
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It was a wonderful event! Jacqueline Gibson from Attadale in WA made “Kermit and the Boab” which was the gorgeous hat I tried on. Each hat had a label so the audience could see who made the work. I just had a lot of fun trying it on. I picked this hat as the artist has used the basketry technique of coiling plant fibre. Right up my alley!!
Jodie you were amazing, we loved having you with us at Central Craft over the Beanie extravaganza. Thanks for immersing yourself in our cooperative space. Your workshops were excellent and well received. We look forward to that Artist In Residence application for next year. Weave well! Warm regards Lucy (Director, Central Craft)