Within the Holy Triangle, frugality and recycling are the norm. The sisters and brothers lived sustainably long before it became fashionable. So you can look for fast fashion here for a long time. Bronwen Jones elevates clothing recovery to an art. At the same time, it is also a philosophy of life for her. She started a dialogue with Sister Simone who runs the sewing workshop at Our Lady’s Abbey. Joint sewing sessions were part of it. From the bit of textile waste – cut-up work clothes, aprons, tablecloths and tea towels – of the radically recycling sisters, Bronwen Jones conjured new pieces using needle and thread and natural dyes. These are presented alongside the sisters’ repair work and artist-repurposed clothing. Look at the difference between the endless black socks darned by the sisters and the socks Bronwen Jones worked on.

Bronwen Jones excels at visible mending. Clothing is repaired in a visible, almost festive way in striking colours and beautiful stitches. Each garment is literally a conversation piece that stimulates stories. Clothing repair fits into a life of respect for resources and labour. Poverty, loss and memory may be other motivations. The artist experienced it as healing to work on and wear their morning coat and jumper after the loss of her grandmother and grandfather. The therapeutic side of restorative work is also reflected in the title mending, tending, blossoming.

This garage has temporarily turned into a sewing studio. You are welcome to learn how to give clothes and other textiles a second life under the inspiring guidance of the artist. You can do this with garments you have brought along or practice materials that are here for you. Moth holes, worn spots and shop hooks have never been so welcome. Leave the sewing machine and surrender to this meditation with needle and thread.