Learn to weave an 8-pointed star and join a worldwide movement! Lotus officially launches its 2016 visual-arts initiative, “One Million Stars to End Violence: Lotus International Star-Weaving Project” on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2016 at the Mathers Museum of World Cultures. Instructors will teach the Samoan star-weaving technique and share this Australian-led initiative inspired by a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” Lotus is one of only two US organizations partnering with the Australia-based initiative “One Million Stars to End Violence,” and has committed to weaving and contributing at least 10,000 stars over the next year. Stars will be featured in an installation at the 23rd Lotus World Music & Arts Festival, at an exhibit in City Hall in December, and then as part of a worldwide installation of 1,000,000 stars in Australia in 2018. The “One Million Stars” project originated as a response to a violent act at a female artist’s studio in Australia. Project founder Maryann Talia Pau found resonance between Dr. Martin Luther’s King, Jr.’s statement and the importance of stars and weaving in her Pacific Island heritage. Weaving traditions are strong throughout South Pacific culture, especially with the indigenous peoples of the Torres Strait and Samoa. Additionally, symbolism stems from “Matariki,” a Maori word referring to the Pleiades star cluster. Like many South Pacific islanders, the Maori relied on stars to navigate across the sea between interconnected islands. This navigation can reference our own human journey, spanning cultures around the world, exercising our “strength to love” over violence. Says Pau, “Every woven star reminds us that we have to MAKE peace and safe spaces and that it doesn’t just happen. Every star is a commitment to resist violence and revenge, to believe in forgiveness and healing.” The free event is recommended for ages 8 and up, including families and groups. Registration is not required, but if you are planning to bring a large group, please email [email protected] or phone 812-336-6599. Light refreshments will be provided.
Free visitor parking is available by the Indiana Avenue lobby entrance. Metered parking is available at the McCalla School parking lot on the corner of Ninth Street and Indiana Avenue. The parking lot also has spaces designated for Indiana University C and ST permits. During the weekends free parking is available on the surrounding streets. An access ramp is located at the Fess Avenue entrance, on the corner of Ninth Street and Fess Avenue. Reserved parking spaces are available on Ninth Street, between Fess Avenue and Indiana Avenue. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. Please call 812-855-6873.