Blue Knob Hall Gallery held its first Fibre Show 20 years ago in 2006. Three local women, Polly Stirling, Sachiko Kotaka and Sylvia Watts set us on a journey into the realms of felting, fibre and fashion, starting a tradition which continues to excite us every year. The whole exhibition features many beautiful pieces from an exquisite hand-stitched Candle Wick quilt by Leanne Openshaw, a Melt the ICE protest hat by Lynda Clark to a hand-woven Skep (Medieval beehive) by Nicole Raward.
The Solo Space is dedicated to Polly Stirling, Sachiko Kotaka and Sylvia Watt, who became the ‘Wild Turkey Feltmakers’. This space also includes iconic pieces from artists (some on loan from private collections) who have exhibited over the years.
This exhibition showcases the versatility of fibre-based practices; from age-old techniques to modern interpretations. The exhibition will run until Sat Sept 5th.
The Fibre show at Blue Knob Gallery has evolved and changed with the exhibitors and their practices over the years, and is still a celebration of contemporary traditional and non-traditional fibre art in all its forms. It showcases the incredible versatility of fibre-based practices; from age-old techniques to modern interpretations.
We have felted, sculpted, woven, sewn and embroidered – taking what nature gives us and turning it into items that keep our bodies’ warm or cool; transforming fibre into the practical and the creative realms of art. While some pieces honour traditional craft, others push boundaries, blurring the lines between materials, functional objects and fine art.
An Opening event celebrating 20 years, will be held on Sun 19th July at 2.30pm, with local musicians Peter Walker, Trevor & Denise White.
