Quilting      

Vishnu’s ongoing quilting project is called Unarchivals - a personally transformative ongoing artistic endeavor, inviting participants into a process of collective creation through the act of sewing a quilt. Each group involved becomes part of a continuum, building upon the traces left by those who came before, layering memories, emotions, and experiences into the fabric itself.

The essence of Unarchivals is encapsulated in the acronym SSTT - Sow Sew Talk Take - which serves as both a guiding principle and a ritualistic framework for the participants. It is a stitch, a style, and a sacred space where individuals can safely confront and engage with the challenges of gender, class, and other traumas. Through the simple act of needle and thread, participants mend not only the quilt but also the wounds within themselves and their communities.

As the stitching progresses, so too does the dialogue among participants. Conversations emerge organically, facilitated by the rhythmic motion of the needle and the shared experience of creation. Stories are shared, laughter rings out, and tears are shed as the group collectively navigates the complexities of their lived experiences.

Interwoven with the sewing sessions are moments of cultural exchange and communal bonding. Participants come together to enjoy laali (lullabies) and sing songs from their respective traditions, creating a harmonious tapestry of sound that fills the space.

One particularly poignant moment arises when the entire group gathers around a single participant, gently rocking them within the quilt. This gesture, reminiscent of an Indian swing, symbolizes the collective support and care offered within the community.

Throughout the process, the quilt itself emerges as a shapeshifter, embodying the collective memories and aspirations of its creators. It becomes a vessel for healing, reconciliation, and reparations in all their nuanced meanings. Each stitch, each thread, is imbued with the resilience and resilience of those who contributed, weaving together a narrative of solidarity and hope in the face of adversity.

As the project continues to unfold, the quilt serves as a tangible reminder of the power of art to foster connection, empathy, and social change. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of collective action.