Full House for Fiber Exhibit Opening

With eight foot fringes flying in front of the Jordan River Art Center, Sunday, September 14, the fiber exhibit, “Rare Threads on the Fringe” opened to art patrons, members, and fiber artists. It was  standing room only in the main gallery with many in the lower gallery experiencing hands on needle felting for the entire afternoon.

Fifty Eight artists were selected to show their most recent fiber art, over 100 works, wall hangings, clothing, accessories,  animals, dolls, jewelry, and three dimensional sculpture. A great variety of materials were used from wool, velvet, felt, cotton, organza, silk, leather, natural fibers, and even, recycled tea bags, bike inner tubes, neckties, sweaters, buttons and safety pins.  Techniques were just as varied and could be found on many works. They were quilting, weaving, stitchery, beading, knitting, appliqué, quill work, dying, painting, silk screen, stamping, photography, embellishment, and calligraphy. 

In the lower gallery was the display of needle felting created by students, grades 3 through 6 from in school workshops. Schools which participated were: Alba, Bellaire, Concord Academy Antrim and Boyne, East Jordan, Ellsworth, and St. Mary’s Charlevoix. In addition book tassels “On the Fringe” were created at the Charlevoix Public Library during the summer reading program. Many patrons created their own needle felting project Stonehenge was on hand to demonstrate their yarns and roving.

Roger Lilak, musician, entertained the guests. Refreshments were served by the committee: Sylvia Walworth, curator of the exhibit, Sandi DiSante, Kathleen Glynn, Beth Raddatz, Marcia Waara, and Babs Young. This exhibit is partially funded by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Charlevoix County Community Foundation.

In relation to the exhibit, the JRAC annual meeting was held in GAR Park across the street from the Center in a wonderful tent provided by the Jordan Valley Tents. The meeting was called to order by Babs Young, president, following a delicious potluck lunch. Secretary, Nancy Carey, presented the slate of nominees to the 2008-2009 Board. They are Cynthia Tschudy, Judy Wagner-Worgess, Norma Petrie, and Joseph Robbins. All approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned and all invited the attend the opening of  “Rare Threads on the Fringe.”

The exhibit will continue though October 12 at the Jordan River Art Center, 301 Main St., East Jordan. Workshops are planned on weekends from Sept. 20 through Oct. 11. There are still some openings. Information and registration concerning the workshops  or arranging for groups to attend the exhibit can call Walworth, 231 599 3065 jewalworth@torchlake.com.