Woolfest 2011
Of course, I understand why artists don't allow their work to be photographed at shows, but I would have loved to share some of the highlights of 'Woolfest' here. We are lucky to have this show in Cumbria, attracting as it does exhibitors from all over the country with exciting products and equipment, and inspiring work from artists in all sorts of media, the main one being, of course, wool.....
....in all its forms; spinning and weaving, dyeing, knitting and crochet, felting, and more. Lots of demonstrations, and also live music all day if you needed to go and sit down and have a rest.
There's a good friendly atmosphere at this show, too, in spite of the huge numbers that were there yesterday.
My favourites? Jackie Lunn and Jenny Pepper's stalls showcasing their fantastic talent in felt-making, Jan Beadle's beautiful weaving, being able to buy gorgeous bits for embroidery from Oliver Twists, and finally buying Ruth Lee's book on three-dimensional embroidery.
The only picture, shown with encouragement from the organisers, features 'flock', "a public art project which aims to encourage creativity and collaboration while supporting and celebrating the sheep farming and wool industry".
It involves groups and individuals in making thousands of pompom sheep for a large installation in Spring 2012, with a smaller one in Penrith during September this year. Further details are available at www.jointheflock.co.uk
I came home with the usual stock of threads, fabrics, books and good intentions!
