Local people learnt traditional Pakistani arts and crafts techniques. Photo courtesy Touchstones

A Rochdale-based artist has been teaching local people the traditional arts and craft techniques of Pakistan to create a new exhibition.

Shaista Nazir, a trained textile artist, visited Pakistan to research the techniques used there to create a wide range of artworks and handicrafts, and also brought back many professional examples. After organising a successful series of workshops since March 2005 the results are being shown alongside the original items at the Threads of Experience exhibition at Touchstones arts and heritage centre in Rochdale.

Techniques learnt inlcuded beadwork, embroidery, and glass work. Photo courtesy Touchstones

“The project has been really successful on several fronts,” explained Shaista. “It has introduced the local community to the gallery culture and also given them a chance to take a look at Pakistani rural arts and crafts and have a go.”

Participants turned their hands to techniques like Chabba basket making, mirror work, embroidery and bead jewellery making using traditional tools.

Displays of professtional work from Pakistan are also on display. Photo courtesy Touchstones

“The people who took part felt they gained not only knowledge and skills but also found the regular workshops a chance to catch up with friends, relax and enjoy a few hours away from their busy home lives,” added Shaista.

Further workshops are running at Touchstones on Thursday afternoons to complement the exhibition.