Crafty work on show at Gallery
The Northern Rivers Community Gallery hosts three exhibitions that honour the talents of women in a diverse range of crafts; past and present.
‘Crafty Ladies’, ‘The Quilt Room’ and ‘Through the Eye of a Needle’ all open at the Gallery on Wednesday 24 March, with the official launch on Saturday 27 March at 2pm.
Ballina Coastal Quilters were successful in obtaining a grant from the NSW Department of Human Services for their project, The Quilt Room, which showcases the creativity of seniors in our community.
The exhibition features both traditional hand craft in the realm of quilting and modern designs and techniques that have evolved with the development of high-tech sewing machines.
During Seniors Week visitors to the gallery can observe quilters at work on their latest projects; watch audio visual presentations that document the history of the craft and its contribution to our social and cultural heritage; and ‘run a thread’ through a collaborative work to commemorate this important week.
‘Crafty Ladies’ – a social history of women and their craft, is a key local event in this year’s Heritage Festival.
In years past, knitting, crochet, sewing and handiwork were important in the lives of many women and this exhibition explores that history and the contribution of women from all walks of life through sewing and craft items.
Many items on show are on loan from the shire’s historical societies and private collections providing a rare opportunity for community members to view some of the important pieces held in local collections.
Through the Eye of a Needle, by Marilyn Hawkins, is an exquisite display of traditional whole cloth quilting and machine piecing as well as contemporary pieces that push the boundaries of traditional patchwork.
Marilyn uses recycled fabric pieces, threads, wool, silk and paint in the construction of her unique pieces.
Members of the community are welcome to attend the official launch of all three exhibitions on Saturday 27 March at 2pm. Entry is free.
All exhibitions will be on display until Sunday 25 April 2010.
PICTURE: Fred’s Church by Marilyn Hawkins.
