The Weight We Hold: Bookbinding as Reflection and Resilience

This reflective, hands-on workshop invites participants to explore the themes of The Weight of Being through the meditative craft of bookbinding. Using simple tools and materials, we will create hand-bound notebooks that act as vessels for our thoughts, emotions, and stories — tangible objects that hold the “weight” we carry in daily life.

As we fold, pierce, and stitch, we’ll reflect on how pressure, tension, and structure shape both the book and the self. Each binding thread becomes a metaphor for resilience, repair, and connection — holding pages, and perhaps ourselves, together. Guided emotional prompts placed around the table will gently encourage reflection on themes such as vulnerability, identity, and strength. Participants will leave with a handmade notebook — part craft object, part reflective journal — and the opportunity to continue their exploration beyond the session.

No previous experience is needed; all materials will be provided. This workshop aims to offer a quiet, creative space for thinking through the emotional and psychological weight of being human, echoing the exhibition’s focus on art as expression, resistance, and survival.

Please feel free to drop-in at anytime between 11:30 - 14:30.

Image credit: Cheuk Laam Wong

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Cheuk Laam Wong is a designer and artist currently studying for an MBA at Central Saint Martins & Birkbeck, University of the Arts London. With a background in product and industrial design, her practice explores how materials can act as metaphors for psychological and emotional experience. Through making and reflective craft, she investigates themes of resilience, vulnerability, and personal growth — often using design as a tool for emotional connection and storytelling.

Instagram: @kara_wong_design

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Flowing through: a workshop festival

Monday 01 & Tuesday 02 December 2025

Curious about stepping into a live performance? Ever wanted to make your own mini-booklet? Or simply want to get lost in a new making process alongside other creatives?

This two day workshop festival at Two Temple Place is your chance to experiment, play, and discover new possibilities. Led by UAL students and staff these workshops will guide you through hands-on creative activities.

All the workshops respond to themes related to vulnerability, resilience, identity, and emotional well-being. Themes that form part of The Weight of Being exhibition taking place at Two Temple Place in January 2026.

Free and open to all. Booking essential.

Also check out other Workshops in London, Arts events in London, Festivals in London.