Ana demonstrates silkscreening on fabric
We began the day with a big run around with the camera. Of course, the Director of Security was not in his office when we arrived, and, after waiting for 30 minutes, we went to the sub-Director to plead for my camera (which was left at the door). The sub-Director called the Director, who told him I only had permission for one day. He seemed to conveniently forget our discussion where he granted me permission for two days and the only evidence of this was locked away in Director of Security’s office. Ah! The prison.
After much bargaining (okay, pleading) we managed to get the prison to agree that we could take pictures of the process and that we could be the photographers rather than a guard. The catch? A guard was required to accompany us the entire time, which was fine for us, but I did feel bad for the guard who ended up staying with us for 2 1/2 hours, learning how to silkscreen. At least he got empanadas in the end!
Mixing Ink
Onward with the class! Ana began the class with a review of the theories learned yesterday and the women finished their homework- which was to draw and cut out a two-color design for today. Yesterday, the black ink got too thick and wouldn’t pass through the frames, so today Ana showed the women how to thin the ink, what the ideal consistency of the ink should be, and how to mix colors to create varying tones.
After a brief demonstration on how to print on fabric the fun part began! The women started printing their own designs on the fabric and going through the process of layering colors. The designs that the women created were simple yet beautiful. Each person had a unique take on the design process which allowed individuality to shine.
Printing!
My favorite part of the class was watching the women pull their fabric off the screens and have the first look at their designs printed on fabric. The look was a mixture of delight, pride, and wonder and conveys how important these classes are for the women. Yes, the classes teach practical skills, but they also play an important role in boosting the women’s self-confidence and self worth.
There is something immeasurable in the feeling of “I did it.” It is the thing that reminds us of our potential as human beings and our capacity to grow. Especially in a place like the prison, where very little changes day to day, these tiny moments are more meaningful than simply earning money. They are a reminder. A reminder of capability. A reminder of change. A reminder of the incredible potential within.
Showing off the finished design