February 1, 2024. We at Celebrate Aotearoa are thrilled to introduce a project that's a first of its kind for us: the Community Quilt Project. Venturing into this new endeavor, we're not just embarking on a sewing project; we're inviting you to join us in a movement of unity, creativity, and heartfelt contribution to a cause that deeply touches us.
Inside the Retail/Workshop Space
Nestled within Celebrate Aotearoa 3/260 Apirana Ave Glen Innes, our workshop space will transform into a hub of creativity and community spirit. For the first time, we are opening our doors to the community to collaborate on this unique project. We invite you to join us in sewing squares for a quilt that speaks volumes of unity and compassion. Whether you're a group of friends, family, or colleagues, or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend your time, you are welcome to be part of this community initiative.
Participation: Planning is Key
At Celebrate Aotearoa, our small team focuses on the retail side, which remains our priority. To balance this, we've tailored the Community Quilt Project around our store hours.
You can join us in two ways: book a session for a more intimate experience, or come in on our 'Open Walk-in Day/s'. However, please understand that due to our limited capacity, we can't accommodate unscheduled participation. Your understanding and cooperation in this regard are immensely appreciated.
The Vision and Outcome
Our aim? To complete a quilt that's not just a piece of art, but a symbol of hope. Once finished, we plan to fundraise through the quilt, with proceeds going towards a reputable organisation supporting children's efforts in Palestine. TBC. This cause touched our hearts profoundly, especially after witnessing the struggles faced in the region, a stark contrast to our own challenges with roadworks outside our shop during the Christmas period.
Our Global Connection, a Compassionate Response
*Trigger Warning: While trying to navigate running a small business approaching the end of year season - one image that appeared on social media will stay with me forever. Without blacked out warning, I came across a heartbreaking scene - a young boy, not much older than my own nephew, dying before my very eyes. This poignant moment, unfolding in a world so different from my own, broke my heart. It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the harsh realities faced by many, a contrast to our own challenges here.
While I don't claim to have all the answers or fully grasp every global crisis, this project is my way of offering a hand of support, a gesture of empathy towards those in need, wherever they may be.
The Birth of an Idea
Initially, to combat our loss of retail and impact due to the ongoing roadworks by Auckland Transport, Downer and Auckland Council. The idea was to start offering paid sewing workshops as a way to attract people to our store and generate some income.
But then, a lightbulb moment: why not combine my passion for sewin/textile art and design with a community effort? With the first project being Free: Thus, the Community Quilt Project was born - a non-charged initiative allowing everyone to contribute to a greater cause.
Let me be clear about who we are at Celebrate Aotearoa. We're a small, locally owned business with a big heart. This Community Quilt Project isn't backed by any external funding; it's a labour of love powered by our own resources. We provide our time and materials without any cost, compelled by our wish to contribute in some meaningful way. Our decision to run this project independently is not a commentary on funded organizations. In fact, we respect and admire those who have successfully secured funding. Should funding opportunities come our way, we certainly wouldn't say no. Our current stance is simply a reflection of our journey so far – one of self-reliance and grassroots effort.
Join Us in This Journey
This project is our way of reaching out, of making a difference through what we know best: sewing. We invite you to be a part of this journey, to sew, to share, and to support. Every stitch you make is a step towards a larger goal - one of hope, unity, and compassion.
We look forward to welcoming you into our store, into a space where creativity meets purpose. Let's stitch together for a cause that extends beyond our individual lives.
Thank you for taking the time to read about our Community Quilt Project.
Your interest and support mean the world to us.
Warm regards,
Czarina Wilson/ Textile Art/Designer
Owner of Celebrate Aotearoa, Retail Shop
Commencing 8 Feburary - To register interest please email with 'community quilt project' in subject line shop@celebrateaotearoa.co.nz
Your Name, Age - Level of sewing skill, and if you would be interested in participating with your friends/work colleagues or work group, your family or in the 'open walk in sessions'
