Until the 1960s, embroidering household linens and marking them with red thread was a way for young women to prepare for their traditional role as wives. By the 1970s, feminist artists decided to repurpose textiles and embroidery to challenge the expectations of female submissiveness. To mark International Women's Rights Day, Cité Maraichère hosts the Débordeuses Collective, a group of eco-feminist embroiderers, offering free workshops on textiles from Friday, March 6 to Sunday, March 8, 2026.
All weekend long, you're invited to explore the connections between the past, present, and future of textiles and women's roles, as well as broader societal expectations placed on women, through eco-feminist practices. This event offers a chance to critically examine the textile industry, which is responsible for significant pollution and exploitation—and is far from eco-friendly—through exhibitions, concerts, delicious food moments, and hands-on workshops, all completely free of charge.
Please note that space is limited for certain workshops. Remember to register via email at contact@lacitemaraichere.com or call 01 49 15 55 16 to secure your spot!
Friday
Ancient techniques and modern subversions—recycled aprons transformed into armor of advice, handkerchiefs holding memories, a world of shimmering, flickering jeans… an exquisite corpse you can explore from the horizon of a world waiting to be remade. On display until April 23, 2026.
Central and Eastern European folklore beautifully blends women's polyphonic choirs with intricate cross-stitch embroidery. So tonight, it’s an unmissable experience: we’re not just listening, but also singing and dancing together, dreaming of a different world!
Saturday
I'm designing a special object that I love… it will become my signature piece! Kids aged 6 to 10, with or without their parents, are welcome to join—limited to 12 participants, with a maximum of 6 children.
What if we could free ourselves from traditional gender expectations when it comes to our plates? Book your lunch at: cheffes.restaurant@gmail.com
Create a large ecofeminist banner by embroidering slogans and motifs on a giant embroidery hoop. Suitable for all ages starting from 16 years old.
Bring circular fashion into your wardrobe: learn how to repair your jeans the Japanese Boro way using the traditional sashiko stitching technique. Open to everyone aged 16 and above.
A group reading session led by the Débordeuses to explore the fashion industry—one of the most environmentally damaging sectors—and discover sustainable alternatives to align your wardrobe with the health of the planet. Suitable for ages 16 and up.
Create your outfits for a 100% upcycled runway show with the Cheffes!
Sunday
Get your hands busy with the Cheffes: come learn how to make a beautiful braided brioche and take your fresh creation home. Open to everyone aged 12 and up.
A woman's fate often revolves around being assigned a role or kept invisible. But what happens when she steps back into the spotlight? How does one navigate reclaiming spaces historically dominated by men? And when the challenge shifts from gender binaries—male/female—to embracing a queer perspective? Join us for a delightful brunch where women from diverse fields—public service, film, research, gastronomy, and ecofeminist embroidery—share their experiences and insights. Hosted by Sophie Wahnich. To reserve a spot: cheffes.restaurant@gmail.com.
How can words be woven together to unravel societal expectations? In what ways does writing become the fabric of our insecurities and pride, our personal stories? Join us for a creative workshop where you’ll explore your relationship with the mirror — reflecting yourself, reflecting others — through the art of writing! The session will feature literary upcycling and counter-tales. No prior writing experience needed; especially designed to foster a supportive, relaxed atmosphere. Open to everyone aged 12 and up.
During a snack at the Cheffes’ place, a lively reading of the texts written during the workshop!
This performance aims to capture the precise notes, minute by minute, of the everyday lives of unknown women. Within the tight weave of time and daily actions lies the space of the poem—that is, our ability to exist in the world, to listen, and to simply be. Shakespeare’s Sisters blurs the line between installation and theatre. It invokes a presence. A consciousness. Sparks a way of thinking, a desire to act. And leaves a very clear impression of the power inherent in simply being. Suitable for audiences aged 10 and up.
Dates and Opening Time
From March 6, 2026 to March 8, 2026
Location
Cité Maraîchère Romainville
6 Rue Albert Giry
93230 Romainville
Prices
Free
Official website
www.lacitemaraichere.com
