We collectively have been working alongside a wonderful group of women in the Enniscorthy community called the Hillside Cailíní.
Our endeavors began with an interest in linking in with the older (or some would say wiser) side of the community, particularly the women. Through contacts and links, we happened to cross paths with the Hillside Cailíní who are a wonderful group of ladies that meet weekly in templeshannon community hall.
We wanted to work with textiles and materials, so we formed the idea of ‘’knit and sit’’ which would become our weekly basis of meeting and promoting a sense of community while skill sharing through the art of knitting.
Whilst being focused on the group in Enniscorthy we also thought that this knit and sit initiative could expand outwards to the wider college community, so we introduced our posters on campus along with bags for collection of any pieces of knitting people would like to contribute. This resulted in us realizing that community can be quite literally knit together through creative acts both in groups and in solitude.
Our time spent with the Hillside Cailíní has shown us the power of craft and its ability to connect people together with positive effects on wellbeing. We learn together continuously, and every meeting is a wonderful chance for us to create in the community and learn from our wise elders!
