Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe on sewing as lifeline in Iranian prison

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian charity worker who spent almost six years imprisoned in Iran, addressed the Hay Festival, sharing how sewing and crafting served as a source of hope and mental relief. She received special authorization to bring Liberty London fabrics into the prison, which she distributed among fellow inmates, referring to it as a symbol of the freedom they were denied. Zaghari-Ratcliffe crafted clothing for her daughter Gabriella and neckerchiefs for other women. Following her release, Liberty London collaborated with her and the Imperial War Museum to create a fabric line inspired by her experiences, with proceeds benefiting prisoners. She also made a quilt from fabrics that reflect her time in captivity, emphasizing how creativity can provide a "quick psychological exit" during confinement.