Through a Community Art Class, FEBEN Highlights the Work of Domestic Abuse Charity Sistah Space

On Saturday 7 December 2024, Dalston’s St. Barnabas was transformed into an art school, as London-based Ethiopian designer FEBEN hosted a life drawing workshop in partnership with the charity Sistah Space—a collaborative initiative made possible by the support of PUMA. The event blended art, fashion, and community spirit, underscoring a shared commitment to empowerment and creative expression while shining a spotlight on Sistah Space’s vital work.

The weekend’s workshop welcomed members of the Sistah Space community, creatives, students, and the public, offering a safe space to address issues around domestic abuse, as well as explore the transformative power of art. Participants sketched live models styled in FEBEN’s latest collection, before transforming their creations into wearable pieces—crafting keepsakes and personalised gifts in time for the holiday season.

Through honest conversations led by the event’s hosts, attendees learned about Sistah Space’s culturally specific support for women of African and Caribbean heritage affected by domestic abuse. The organisation’s tireless advocacy to remove cultural barriers and foster equality in the fight against gender-based violence was a central theme.

“Supporting my London community and sustainability has and will always be a core value to me as a designer but most importantly as a person,” FEBEN reflected. “There are always ways you can push creative ideas to spotlight and support the real change-makers in our communities. I wanted to raise awareness of Sistah Space with this event… Christmas is a time when they are most busy with their services, so this event was timed purposely ahead of that period.”

“This partnership with FEBEN means a lot to our charity as it provides a unique opportunity for our service users to partake in events that otherwise may not be so accessible to them,” shared Djanomi Robinson of Sistah Space. “Whether it is used as a way of expression and healing or just a fun day out, opportunities like this are crucial at what can often be our busiest time of year. The fact that this partnership is supported by PUMA sends an important message to the demographic that we support and represent. You are seen, you are heard and you are cared for.”

The day’s agenda also included a soul-warming Ethiopian feast prepared by Gwada Kitchen, accompanied by the aromatic allure of traditional Ethiopian coffee. The culinary experience was a nod to FEBEN’s heritage and a reminder of the ways food can bring people together. Through the lens of renowned photographer Liz Johnson Artur, the event’s spirit was evocatively captured.



For more information or ways to support Sistah Space, visit their website.



Feature image by Liz Johnson Artur