A local artist is leading a project to make a community quilt, through Barry's Memo Arts Centre.

Jodi Ann Nicholson says she has always wanted to create a quilting project, as it fits with themes in her work about exploring and communicating identity.

Now, following online tutorials Jodi has created people in Barry will make their own squares which she will then put together to form a quilt displayed at the Memo.

"I saw other projects from the past and around the world that were based on quilts. They were about bringing people together and sharing a voice," said Jodi.

"That was three years ago, so I've had this idea but not had the chance or moment where I could make it happen.

"Towards the end of last year, the Memo reached out to connect with different artists in the area and asked if I was interested in doing a project with them. The first thing I thought of was the quilt.

"It can be for people of Barry and bring us together. I thought that was really important, with what we're going through at the moment with the lockdowns," she said.

Jodi has recorded video tutorials where she shows how to prepare and make quilt squares using materials people have at home.

"I've used old jeans and t-shirts in the tutorials. I wanted it to be as accessible as possible and to think of all the limitations," said Jodi.

"People might say 'well, I can't sew, or I can't do this'. So, something not too stretchy is good as a base, like cotton t-shirts or denim. Obviously, something you don't want to re-wear.

"I've done some sewing, painting, applique and embroidery. It's whatever you want to do!

"I'm really looking forward to seeing what everyone makes. It's open to all ages so hopefully there will be a variety.

For the next month you can make and send in your squares to the Memo, which Jodi will put together, with the process shared online.

"At the end we'll have an actual quilt, which I think will live at the Memo, but when we can it will be really nice to invite everyone to see.

"Hopefully, it brings people to closer together and it's something we can look back on a remember how hard and difficult this time was but also see something lovely and positive that has come out of this time.

"Think about yourself, your local area, what you've been doing or what you'd like to be doing.

The quilt will be finished by St David's Day on 1 March 2021, and applications to join can be submitted until Friday 29 January.

Find out more about the project and sign up here .