By Kath Gannaway
A display of modern and traditional tapestry is on show this month at the Mont De Lancey Museum in Wandin.
More than 40 works by members of the Needlework and Tapestry Guild of Victoria made up the exhibition which includes the guild’s magnificent 40th anniversary wall hanging, geometric and old-world designs.
President Marion Miller and secretary Anne Bryan launched the display and said the magnificent museum space and historic surrounds at the Wandin historic homestead were an ideal setting with tapestry very popular in the 1800s, about the same era as Mont De Lancey.
“The 1800s saw new and vibrant colours, and people had money to pay for these things to decorate their houses,” Ms Miller said.
“Going back in history, people did it at home because they were not working outside the home.”
While most enthusiasts are in the ‘mature’ age group, Ms Bryan said as with many traditional crafts, social media is revitalising interest in tapestry among younger generations.
Members are very happy, keen in fact, to share their love of the craft and help newcomers.
Ms Bryan says a lot of people think there is just one basic stitch, but there are around 100 different stitches and a range of fancy, colourful threads to work with and create beautiful and unique works.
For more information on the guild, call Ms Bryan on 0400 644 086.
Mont De Lancey museum is at 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
