Led by local artist Sana Maulvi, Rise and Craft was developed to help young mums reconnect with themselves through creative practice, in an environment that’s flexible and welcoming.
Sana, a multidisciplinary artist and a mother herself, recognised the need for something that fits around parenting but still offers meaningful engagement.
“There’s a gap when it comes to creative opportunities for young mums,” she said.
“These workshops are designed with them in mind – the timing, the pace, and the space to be present.”
Since launching in January, Rise and Craft has delivered a variety of workshops across Blackburn, including pottery and textured painting at The Making Rooms and sip and paint sessions at RF Café.
Future workshops will include embroidery, loom weaving, and leather crafting, led by Jason and Louise Stocks at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery.
The programme is funded by Arts Council England and supported by several organisations, including the National Festival of Making, Crafts Council, Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, The Making Rooms, and Diamond Awl Leather Workshops.
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Tom Macpherson-Pope, Director of The Making Rooms, said:
“Yes, it’s about helping people make stuff, but also helping people to have their creative practices here in Blackburn – whether it be young mothers or children.”
Participants say the experience is about more than just learning a skill.
“It’s a quiet space where you can lose yourself in a colour, a stitch, a piece of clay – where you’re not just Mum, but yourself again.”
Another said: “It’s not about being selfish. It’s about filling your own cup, even just a little, so you have more to give.”
Sana’s wider artistic practice explores identity, culture and symbolism through mixed media, blending ancient techniques with contemporary approaches.
Alongside her studio work, she runs community workshops that make the arts more accessible and encourage people to try new mediums for the first time.
By connecting young women with local creative spaces and organisations, Rise and Craft also helps build awareness of what’s available in Blackburn – encouraging people to make use of these spaces more regularly.
To find out more or sign up for upcoming sessions, follow Sana Maulvi on social media.
