This exciting installation of over 4000 naturally dyed, hand stitched mandus (Korean dumplings) mobiles will be opening at the Phoenix Art Space, 27^th May- 7^th June 2026, Wednesday – Sunday, 12noon – 5pm.

Created by artist, Sara Cook using traditional Korean silk organza and by more than 800 participants from the around the UK and from 20 other countries. Individuals registered to buy a kit of materials and then posted back the completed mobiles to her.

Part of the aim of the project was to connect with community partners and involve as many groups as she could work with that were either free to attend or available at a minimal cost. This inclusive approach enabled broader participation, strengthening the project by welcoming members from the wider community who might not usually take part in a large-scale art initiative. Their involvement has contributed significantly to the project’s success and overall impact

Making mandus is part of the ancient Korean tradition of bojagi (wrapping cloths). Mandus were made from small pieces of fabric to wrap messages of good wishes and gifted to friends. As part of this project participants were encouraged to include their own messages of good wishes inside one of their mandus.

Designed to welcome the arrival of spring and make wider cultural connections, the installation provides an immersive experience for quiet contemplation and to be reminded of the changing season. The project shows the power of a collective act of stitching to create something that has great impact and bring joy to so many. Our need to connect to the handmade seems ever more pressing as our lives become increasingly dominated by technology.

PV: 28 May (6 – 8pm)

Touring to:

Oriental Museum, Durham 3^rd April-6^th June 2027

www.bojagiuk.com