Fibre art takes many forms at upcoming festival
By Contributor
Artisans who work with fibre will be sharing their techniques and knowledge at the first fibre festival in Grand Forks as a part of the Kettle River Festival of the Arts in August. What is a fibre festival? There will be three days of workshops taught by artisans from B.C., Alberta and Washington State. Some of the courses include quilting techniques, spinning, weaving, braid making, basketry, felting, preparing animal fleeces, lace and sock knitting, doll making, rug hooking, clothing design and sewing, woodcarving and much more. The idea took shape in January 2010 when a group of local artisans got together over coffee and talked about workshops and festivals they had attended over the years,” said one of the society’s founders, Lynn Relph. “The group went on to form the Boundary Fibre Festival Society and Fibre Fusion at the Forks was on it’s way to becoming the first fibre festival in Grand Forks.” There is room for approximately 200 participants but people are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment. Along with the many daily classes, each evening there will be guest speakers sharing information about photographing and marketing for artists. “We have also invited vendors from B.C. and Alberta who will be selling everything fibre at our merchant mall,” Relph added. “Only quality items will be for sale and some merchants will also be giving demonstrations of what can be created with their products.” Relph explained that the goal is to introduce those who have never worked with fibre to diverse and beautiful mediums as well as to further the knowledge and skills of artisans and crafters. And, of course, to meet new people and have fun while creating, Relph added. The festival will take place Aug. 11 to 13, 2011 at the Gospel Chapel, 7048 Donaldson Dr. Workshop hours will run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and the merchant mall will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
More information on instructors, workshops and fees as well as a class schedule on the website: www.fibrefusionattheforks.com. The workshop information, schedule and registration form can all be printed from the website. Or contact Lynn at 442-2083 or Jan at 442-2575.
