Unframed Tapestry

This hand-stitched tapestry created by Florence Ocanda, Threads of Blessing artist, measures 13" x 15", and shows several women gathered at a well collecting water. Using a bold cool color palette, uncomplicated composition, and beautiful stitch-work juxtaposed against the reality of the scene, Florence sheds light on the fact that over half the population of Uganda does not have basic access to drinking water, which means people must often travel far for clean water. 

One after another, the women wait to fill numerous large containers of water. A woman leans over to pump water from the well while another completes the task, leaving the scene balancing the large container of water on her head. The illustrative detail shown in the black stitched line work of the water containers and on the pump, as well as the black contour lines used throughout the piece, shows Florence's skill as a textile artist. 

Florence lives in Goli, Nebbi Diocese, in northwestern Uganda, close to the Congo border.  She offers this insight on how Threads of Blessing has impacted her life.

“Threads of Blessing is a great blessing to me and my family. It has helped me in the following ways:

• It has created a great fellowship among the members both locally and throughout the country of Uganda.

• It has financially empowered me to contribute towards the payment of school fees for our children

• From the sale of my pieces, I have been able to contribute towards supporting my family's daily needs. These needs include gardening and cultivating, water bills, medical bills, etc.”