Milk and Blankets is a hands-on art project that explores the act of feeding babies and children, the emotions, techniques, preconceptions and struggles associated with it and the unsolicited advice that can be received.

During March and April, artists Ania Bas, Amelia Hawk and Joanne Masding will lead creative workshops across 8 community hubs in Birmingham, with breastfeeding support and parenting groups. The artworks created during the workshops will form the backdrop to a public celebratory picnic on 10th June at Midlands Arts Centre (information here).

For information about the workshops or public event please email info@feedproject.art

Workshops:

Clay making workshop with Joanne Masding 
This workshop is an invitation to make cups and small pots together, as we celebrate all forms of baby feeding in public. Looking at examples of infant feeding and the female form in sculpture, and bringing our own expert knowledge of what it takes to nourish a baby, we will create cups out of clay that will become a collaborative artwork. You will be taught how to make a pot using the pinching technique, and all materials will be provided. 

Creative writing workshop with Ania Bas 
This workshop is an invitation to read, think and write about experiences of feeding a baby and the emotional weight of being a parent. The session will include some guided and collective creative writing exercises as well as opportunities to work with words on your own. You will be stepping into a safe space, so there is no need to worry about wrong spelling or having nothing interesting to say. All materials will be provided. 

Play with your food, have a cuppa with Amelia Hawk 
This workshop is an invitation to explore comfort and nutrition in the humble mug of tea. We will be making infused milks and teas for big and small hands, exploring our mental and physical needs from the warmth of a hot drink. Flavour combinations will touch upon lactation, nutrition and mood. The workshops will be loose and free-flowing, with plenty of space for play. All materials provided. 

Schedule:

Mon 3rd March
Play with your food, have a cuppa with Amelia Hawk 
10.00 - 11.30
Bear Bookshop (588 Bearwood Rd, Bearwood, Smethwick B66 4BW). 

Tues 4th March
Clay making workshop with Joanne Masding
10.00 - 11:30
Breastfeeding Network. Lakeside Children’s Centre (Lakes Rd, Birmingham B23 7UH N.B: if you are using a satnav please use B23 7LY). 

Wed 5th March
Clay making workshop with Joanne Masding
10.30 - 12.30 
Mamahood Space (Stryx).  

Wed 5th March
Creative writing workshop with Ania Bas 
10 - 11:30
Breastfeeding Network. Kitts Green Children’s Centre (45 Ridpool Rd, Birmingham B33 9RB).

Fri 14th March 
Creative writing workshop with Ania Bas 
10.00 - 11:30
Breastfeeding Network. Fox Hollies Children’s Centre (419 Fox Hollies Rd, Birmingham B27 7QA).

Wed 19th March
10.30 - 12.30  
Play with your food, have a cuppa with Amelia Hawk 
Mamahood Space (Stryx, Jewellery Quarter).

Fri 21st March
Creative writing workshop with Ania Bas 
10.30 - 12.00 
NCT Branch – Sutton Coldfield (Duke Street Church. Duke St, Sutton Coldfield B72 1RJ).

Thurs 10th April
Clay making workshop with Joanne Masding
11am- 1pm  
Maternity Engagement Action.  

Mon 28th April
Play with your food, have a cuppa with Amelia Hawk 
1- 2.30pm
Breastfeeding Network. Wychall Children’s Centre (Staple Lodge Road, Northfield Birmingham B31 3ER).

Milk & Blankets is funded by Birmingham City Council, Arts Council of England and University of Lancashire.