Naomi Lawrence

Chinatown Yarn Circle: Stand Speak Shape

2021-24: This project brought together members of the Chinatown community to form Yarn Circles that created art and also discussed issues impacting the Asian American community. Crochet volunteers engaged in the shared experience of spending time together over the course of 3-5 months and contributed individual pieces of art towards the creation of a large-scale art piece to beautify their neighborhood with a meaningful civic message. The result was a 25 foot x 4 foot textile mural with over 1500 Asian-themed flowers and bamboo adorning the words Stand-Speak-Shape and their corresponding Chinese characters.

Artist in Residence Exploration and Start Up

2025-26: This project is an in-depth exploration of the role of “Artist in Residence” within the parish of the Church of Saint Edward the Martyr, with the aim of understanding, shaping, and developing this position in a thoughtful and sustainable way. The work seeks to clarify the purpose, expectations, and potential impact of the residency, taking into consideration both the artistic vision and the pastoral mission of the parish. At its heart, the project recognizes that creativity can serve as a bridge between the church and the wider community. Through workshops, visual art, storytelling, or collaborative activities, the “Artist in Residence” can offer meaningful opportunities for engagement, reflection, and shared experience. A particular focus will be placed on how the role may support the church’s connection with older adults, families, and children. The arts often provide a natural and accessible doorway for people to become involved, express themselves, and feel welcomed. Ultimately, this work is not just about defining the position—it is about understanding how the presence of an artist can enrich parish life, nurture belonging, and open space for imagination, faith, and human connection across generations.