Although I spend a bit of time at the CNRAG, I obviously don’t pay that much attention to the upcoming events as it was with surprise that I greeted the new textiles-based exhibition that is up for the month of April.

I really like it! My bias is obvious but the sheer mass of handcrafting that has gone into this work, the functionality of most of the pieces and the diversity of techniques on display…simply stunning.

Grunske, Orange Wool Shoulder Cape, stitched and layered, with beaded clasp.

Oyston, What! Lettuce Again, Dyed paper, organza, snail shells, bead, threads

Grunske, Silk scarf with wool, stitching and beads & Pink/purple hand-dyed necklace

Left to right: Grunske, Chunky Wool Neckwarmer, handknitted, felted, embellished. Grunske, Black Wool Neck Piece, wool, vintage buttons. Symes, Around the Shoulder, Kid mohair, cotton, acrylic.

Grunske, Black wool scarf, Black wool handbag, Black wool cuff, Black wool neckpiece. Needle embellished with wool and roses.

Grunske, Black Wool Cuff, Black Wool Neckpiece detail.

Gruske, Aqua Wool Neckwarmer, embellished with leaves, flowers, jewellery

Symes, Caisson, Wrapped in silk 1, Wrapped in silk 2, No. 1 & No. 2, Hand felted wool, beads, thread, polyester, silk

Symes, Hat, velvet, cotton, polyester

Symes, Hat, velvet, cotton, polyester

Oyston, Feelings, Fabric, lace, over-stitched, embellished painted acrylic

Feelings detail.

Oyston, Summertime 1, Silk hand-painted tunic