Crafted Liberation

22 November 2024 - 19 February 2025

Crafted Liberation is a collective action, transforming headscarves donated by Iranian women into stadium seats, as a statement for women’s empowerment. These headscarves, once symbols of enforced tradition, now embody personal choice and resilience.

Through circular material innovation and storytelling, these objects amplify Iranian women's inspiring journeys, creating spaces for acceptance, belonging, and dialogue.

Created from the heart by RK Collective, initiated by Iranian-Australian designer, Nila Rezaei, this exhibition calls for awareness and solidarity for women in Iran and beyond.

Collaborating with local manufacturing partners, using a combination of lamination and compression moulding techniques, a unique material was created. This material combines the headscarves with recycled polymers, referencing the composite materials traditionally used in stadium seat construction. Each seat’s unique visual appearance carries the story and strength of the Iranian women who donated their scarves.

With a commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, this project’s core mission is to promote cultural inclusion and environmental sustainability through tangible products. Crafted Liberation envisions a future where headscarves represent personal choice, not compulsion, and where every Iranian woman enjoys equal rights and freedoms.

Participate in Crafted Liberation

Everyday, women in Iran continue to fight for their rights and freedom. Join us in amplifying their voices and supporting their cause.

Donate your unwanted headscarves

RK Collective invites you to donate your unwanted headscarves. Visit Crafted Liberation’s website to donate your headscarves.

Crafted Liberation film was produced by Alexander Smith for RK Collective.

Events

Crafted Liberation: Floor Talk

In this special event designer Nila Rezaei will talk about her work for Crafted Liberation. This project is a collective action, transforming headscarves donated by Iranian women into stadium seats, as a statement for women’s empowerment. Through circular material innovation and storytelling, these objects amplify Iranian women's inspiring journeys, creating spaces for acceptance, belonging, and dialogue.

When: Saturday, 23 November, 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm
Where: Australian Design Centre
Tickets: Free, book here

Storytelling Circle: Voices of Resilience

This is a powerful storytelling session led by Iranian women, who will share their personal stories of resilience and experiences of being part of the diaspora. The stories will explore the intersection of culture, identity, and personal journeys, highlighting how each woman’s journey has been shaped by—and contributes to—the ongoing fight for women’s rights.

When: Saturday 8 February 2025, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Where: Australian Design Centre

Tickets: Free, book here

Free Exhibition Tours

Make the most of your trip to the Australian Design Centre with a free exhibition tour. The gallery team will introduce you to the current exhibitions and Object Shop.