Pointy end: Embroidery club members Marjorie Kavanagh, Berry Millard, Hilde Brenner, Gillian Norris, Jo Britt and Sue Patterson with examples of their work.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
EMBROIDERY is rarely considered an art form, except among exponents, of course.
The 140 or so members of the Geelong branch of the Embroiderers Guild of Victoria take a lot of pride in their craft.
The branch is a founding member of Geelong Artisans Group, aimed at raising the profile of the high standard of work among various local spinners, weavers, ceramic painters, lace makers, quilters and others.
Branch president Sue Patterson said the socially-based group emphasised education.
“We see our role as spreading the art to the following generations through scholarships, classes and exhibitions,” she said.
“We’re keeping the art alive for future generations.”
Embroidery was one of the oldest art forms as well as a fashion statement, Sue explained.
The group was born of a Geelong Grammar School parents and friends exhibition, sparking public interest in the art.
“We all did needlework in school and it’s about expanding that to the huge array of designs and techniques embraced by embroidery.
“You don’t have to be brilliant, just have a love of the art of embroidery. We have people of all levels and abilities in the branch.
“We always love to welcome new people to learn the art.
“We’ve had people taking up the textile area in recent times, with people using felting and layers of fabric, fusing them and creating fabric out of paper and silk.
“It’s still using the same techniques but our members are producing wall hangings, books, scarves, hats and boxes. People are using a lot of recycled materials.
“It takes embroidery to the next generation.”
Sue said the branch put a lot of effort into its junior section, under the tutelage of leading embroiderers.
“Some of our juniors have gone on to do textiles or graphic arts at RMIT.” Sue said the group was involved in many community events, such as Pako Festa.
The group held a bi-annual member’s exhibition, while the prestigious Johnston Collection asked members to provide Christmas decorations for Fair-hall House Museum in 2009.
Members come from Winch-elsea, Surf Coast and the Bellarine Peninsula, with groups meeting at Torquay, Portarlington, Leopold as well as Geelong.
Sue asked anyone with information to phone her on 5255 5490 or email her at suepatt_99@yahoo.com.au.
