Collecting Loss - Weaving Threads of Memory

When will Collecting Loss be exhibited?
Where will Collecting Loss be exhibited?
Will every contribution of clothing and story be used?
What will the exhibit include?
Can I contribute a story without clothing?
Can I contribute clothing without a story?
Can I contribute clothing and stories for more than one loved one?
Will my clothing be returned to me?
Why did you start this project?
How did you meet?
Why did you choose to collect clothing?
Why did you choose to collect stories?
Will you notify me about the exhibit(s)?
Can I contribute after the deadline?

1. When will Collecting Loss be exhibited?

Collecting Loss will be exhibited in 2008. The exact dates are to be determined.

2. Where will Collecting Loss be exhibited?

The exhibit will open at a gallery/public space in Toronto, Canada. Space is currently being sought. If you have a space you would like to propose, please contact us.

We would also welcome the opportunity to take Collecting Loss to other cities within and outside of Canada. Again, please contact us if interested in proposing space in your city.

3. Will every contribution of clothing and story be used?

Every contribution received by the deadline will be used. Clothing will be used in its entirety. Excerpts from all stories will also become part of the exhibit.

4. What will the exhibit include?

The exhibit will include:

photographs of the clothing as it was received;
new items of clothing formed by a machine embroidery technique that will bring together pieces from all the donated clothing;
text-based and audio art pieces that will share excerpts from stories.

5. Can I contribute a story without clothing?

Yes, a story can be contributed without an item of clothing. In this case, we ask that your story have some relationship to an item of clothing worn by your deceased loved one (i.e. sharing a memory about a favourite item of clothing he/she wore, sharing what happened with the clothing after he/she passed away, etc.)

6. Can I contribute clothing without a story?

Yes, clothing can be contributed without a story. However, please be sure to fill out and send the Intake Form so we at least know your deceased loved one's name and some basic information.

7. Can I contribute clothing and stories for more than one loved one?

Yes, if there is more than one loved one you would like to remember, please know you are welcome to contribute clothing and stories for each one.

8. Will my clothing be returned to me?

No, all clothing received will be used to create new textile pieces. Therefore, we will not be able to return it to you.

9. Why did you start this project?

Collecting Loss grows out of our own personal experiences with losing our siblings and a desire to offer something meaningful that remembers those we love who have passed away, while honouring everyone who continues to live despite the challenges of loss and grief - often transforming those losses in ways that encourage life.

10. How did you meet?

We met while training as volunteers with Bereaved Families of Ontario - Toronto. An instant friendship was formed that also quickly became the beginnings of a creative partnership, which developed into Collecting Loss.

11. Why did you choose to collect clothing?

We chose clothing because it can be so evocative of a person - their smell, sweat, body. Clothing holds memories and is something tangible we are left with, often not knowing what to do with it, when someone passes away. Clothing no longer occupied by a body, like memory over time, can hold stories that are never told before disappearing.

12. Why did you choose to collect stories?

Story is the gateway to compassion, education and change. Storytelling is a powerful and necessary tool in the process of grieving the loss of a loved one. Being witnessed in the telling of our stories and finding ways to memorialize those we love are both key to working through the necessary tasks of mourning. What we are often missing today, however, are intimate and safe containers for "story-catching," places where our tales are respectfully held and deeply heard. We are creating one such container.

13. Will you notify me about the exhibit(s)?

Yes, if you provide us with your contact information (email, phone # and/or mailing address) we will notify you with all exhibit information. This information will also be on our website so please check from time to time.

As well, photos and story excerpts will be added to our Gallery at http://www.collectingloss.com/gallery.html as the project develops.

14. Can I contribute after the deadline?

It is important that we receive your clothing and story (with Intake Form and Release Form) by the deadline so that the project can progress into the next phase of creation. However, if you know that your contribution will be a bit late, please notify us by email at info@collectingloss.com with approximately when to expect it and we will wait for it.