Friends, valued customers, fellow crafters and textile-workers!
Many of you have read the Open Day Programme and Concert Programme, and seen the numerous reports in the media – the 26th Open Day and Yard Fest are taking shape; preparations are at the “all hands on” stage now.
This is but a small selection of spectacular late news, of course we are keeping a batch of real “gems” in the back of our long sleeves. Enjoy reading and make sure you pass this on to a friend or two.
Before your do, please remember:
Bookings are coming in extremely heavy at this stage – make sure you tell us about extra folks who want to come with you!
Especially the talks will be packed – anybody who hasn’t booked with us will not get in!
– Maria Cardenas is showing one creation!
The master-tailor from Colombia with a base in Co. Down came “on board” late due to a lengthy period in her home country and a very big work load. She will join our other special guest – designers (see programme) showing one bespoke piece. Welcome back Maria!
– Courtney Crawford – 4 generations in linen!
The 10-year-old from Portadown will show a creation which I made from linen woven by her great-grandfather! Iconic weaver and ex-manager of Blackers Mill, Jim Mather will be with his great-granddaughter on the day.
– Helen Keys in the driving – seat!
The university lecturer from Moneymore and flax-grower will be this year’s compere of the Fashion Show. She is stepping into “big boots” – last year Duncan Neil, creative director at William Clarks, was our compere, the year before the amazing Helen Mark (BBC) did the job. We really wanted Helen Keys this time, she combines great knowledge on the raw material with a wonderful appearance.
– Straw Dolls by Gerry Bond!
The spinner of distinction from Magilligan has an unrivalled collection of dolls he made plus he is bringing some Flax dolls from Russia. You haven’t seen anything like it!
– Flax Mill’s talking!
We have added – due to up-to-date circumstances – a talk on the Shipyard.
Ernest Walker from Sheffield, now based in Belfast, a life-long union activist and metal-worker will speak on “Can the Shipyard be saved?” As all talks this one will be packed – booking essential.
1. Talking Shipyard at 12 noon in the mill cottage, orator: Ernest Walker.
2. Fashion Show at 1pm in the marquee behind the cottage (booked out at this stage, we could “squeeze in” one or two whoever comes first…).
3. Talking Linen and Poetry through the ages by Bruce Clark at 2.30pm in the mill cottage.
4. Talking dyeing with natural materials (Christine Casey / Sarah Foster-Jarden) at their stall in front of the mill – they will talk several times, just go there and find out!
– Exhibition of photographs by Bernard S. Davis in the conservatory. I have put this together to show Bernard’s amazing contribution to our Open Day and Yard Fest over the years.
– Last but certainly not least: My sister Heike Baur is jetting in from Hamburg to join our catering brigade. Heike is a highly qualified chef and will “put the hat on” making sure our guests get the usual superb dinner and buffet! She has never cooked at a Yard Fest – never could make the time. WELCOME HEIKE!
This is by far not all the late news, just a little selection to water your mouth!
Excitement is growing, I can’t wait to put my arms around you again!
Love over Gold
Marion