In a society that often emphasizes individualism and consumption, Threaded Together’s Create + Connect initiative stands as a beacon of community-building and empowerment. By providing a space for people to interact with materials, realize their agency, and celebrate their interconnection, the organization is contributing to the resilience of the community, one Wednesday night at a time.

The inaugural Men’s Spring Knitting Retreat, held in May 2008, brought 32 like-minded individuals from various corners of the continent. From the serene backdrop of Easton Mountain, these men reveled in the joy of knitting, spinning, and most importantly, each other’s company. A unanimous decision was made to make it an annual affair and birthed the idea of regional retreats across the country. 

At the Rochambeau Library in Providence, Rhode Island, stitching took center stage as textile artists Hayley Perry and Liz Bessel offered a hands-on presentation: The Art of Expressive Stitching.

As San Diego and Tijuana share the stage, the exhibition becomes a unique binational experience, showcasing the talents of artists and designers from both sides of the international border.

The Amani Sewing Academy helps refugee women break the cycle of isolation by providing a safe space for them to gather, develop marketable sewing skills, and begin building a community of their own.

The artwork in Influences/Influencers is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Visitors will encounter a diverse array of techniques, from traditional weaving and embroidery to experimental mixed-media approaches.