May meeting - Valerie Wartelle

Our speaker this month was Valérie Wartelle, from Halifax. Following a textile design degree course, Valerie spent the first part of her career working as a commercial designer, but following more study, eventually decided to enter into the world of creative textiles.

Heath Scarf - image taken from Valerie's website

Her chosen medium was fibres, initially wool only, but later incorporating silk and flax, and transparent fabrics . Her moody and sensitive landscapes were so popular, that she chose to become a full time artist, and a very successful one at that. Valérie explained her painstaking technique of the layering and mixing of fibres, and her gentle method of felting which enables her to carefully build up the effect she desires. We were entranced by both her work, and the delivery of her talk in a soft lilting French accent. From product design, into fine art, Valerie now finds herself producing product again. We were honoured to be shown the prototypes of large, digitally printed wool and cashmere scarves, which by the way the members were drooling over them, are certain to become a sure fire hit!

In other things . . .

The speaker for next month (June) is not as advertised, but will instead be Joanna O’Neill.

Regional Day

June 10th at Riccall. Tickets (inc lunch) £25 members. £30 non members

If you would like a ticket, please notify Sue Giles before 27th May. You can pick up your ticket at the June meeting or at the door on the day.

Summer School

There are a few places left on the Region Summer School.

Further details about both the Regional Day and the Summer School can be found in the Region Yearbook

For the June Meeting

Please bring contributions for our bag (being made for us by Jean Graves), which will be our raffle prize contribution at region day. New or handmade items please.

We would also like to see as many “Inspiration Packs” as possible please. So far we have one!

Sales Table

The sales table is proving invaluable in the management of our finances. Sharon and Christine would like you to have a good sort out, and provide them with some more stock please!

National AGM

Shirley and Celia gave reports on various aspects of the AGM. The report of the Trustees and other documents are available to be read in the members’ area of the Guild website.

Celia announced that Shirley had been presented with this year's Executive Award, given for services to the Embroiderers’ Guild, and read the citation. Shirley was presented with a splendid orchid in recognition of the award, and for which she wishes to pass on her thanks.

Cafe refurbishment at the Folk Hall

Please note that from July, there will be no cafe whilst refurbishment of that side of the building takes place. This is extensive and may last for up to 12 months! Members will need to bring lunch, including a drink. Soft drinks and biscuits will take the place of our usual tea and biscuits after the speaker.