Swaporamarama

ArtsConnect and Douglas College co-sponsor Swaporamarama, a fabulous FREE event inspiring us to swap and 'art'ivate old clothes. Participants fill a bag full of clothes they don't want anymore, and bring it to Douglas College on the day of the event. At the event they trade their old clothes for some new items, and re-make them into something even better. There are materials, equipment and experienced help on hand as everyone decorates, sews, silkscreens or paints new creations.

Swaporamarama's premise is that our culture is too involved in consuming and not involved enough in creating and re-creating. It taps into the DIY, green and frugal trends, and adds a fun, fashionable and social twist.

Swaporamarama is a non-profit organization that started in the US. They arrange a free silkscreening machine and inks through their sponsor, Yudu. Sundrop Textiles in Port Coquitlam generously sponsors Janome sewing machines for the event, and Fabricana and other sponsors donate textiles, notions, scissors, seam rippers, buttons, paints, brushes and more. There are local quilters on hand to help with sewing and artful advice. If you are an artist who wants to lend some creative inspiration, please This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it - we'd love your help!

There is be a red carpet where you can model your new creations, if that's your thing, comparing "before" and "after looks" and offering inspiration to others. But mostly, there's just be a whole lot of fun and a whole lot of people working together to create a great event.

Our first Swaporamarama happened on March 13, 2010 in the Main Atrium of Douglas College's David Lam Campus in Coquitlam. We hosted hundreds people of all ages and abilities, and it was a total blast. To see what all the fuss is about, read our recap of the day, and check back here for details on upcoming events!