January meeting - Sarah Jackson

Our speaker this month was Sarah Jackson who, as she explains in her talk, produces pieces of vintage and textile art under the guise of Winifred Taylor.

Khokhloma - Sarah Jackson

She talks enthusiastically about the path her life has taken, and how all these elements ultimately led to her interest in Folk Art and how this has fed into her creative practice. She speaks knowledgeably about the history of Folk Art and how it has developed and been held in esteem in the UK and also in other countries most specifically in Russia and Sweden.

Matryoshka -Sarah Jackson

The talk is full of interesting little nuggets of information - that we might have sat on the work of Enid Marx - that a deer's antlers are a symbol of fertility - that the Russian words for red and beautiful sound very similar. I think everyone present will have learned something new.

Vasilisa the Wise - Sarah Jackson

The talk was illustrated with examples of folk art through the centuries and also contemporary art works. We were also able to see (and touch!) examples of Folk Art from Sarah's collection, and examples of her own work. A very interesting talk.

In other things . . .

We have a new chairperson. Chris has agreed to take on the role. New committee members are still sought, so speak to a committee member if you might be interested.

Young Embroiderers will be running in the February half term. Again they will be led by Jess, but because of her other commitments, they will be on Monday and Tuesday this time. See the Young Embroiderers page for contact details for more information.

Stitch club is continuing next month. It begins at 10:15 - just turn up. Shirley will be leading a session on stumpwork, and Carol will be demonstrating uses of lutrador, tyvek and the like (there may be a small fee to cover costs of materials used). Offers from other members to demonstrate techniques would be very welcome.