"We are Penn State," a hooked rug wall hanging by Angela Fishman, is one of more than 100 fiber pieces on display in the Art Gallery.
MULTIMEDIA SHOWCASE OF FIBER ART
Artists' Reception: 6:00-8:00 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 2, Art Gallery
Free to the public
A multimedia exhibit showcasing the works of Butler Spinners and Weavers Guild opens Aug. 1 for a month long run in the Art Gallery at Penn State New Kensington.
The exhibit, which runs until Aug. 31, features a variety of more than 100 fiber arts created by 20 guild members. Some items are available for sale.
“We will give a great representation of the artistic talents and abilities of our members,” said Wini Labrecque, a fiber professional and president of the guild. “The quality and workmanship of the items created by members often rivals professional artists.”
The Butler Spinners and Weavers Guild was founded in 1982 to promote interest in spinning and weaving and to teach the art. The mastery of the organization’s 50 members varies from beginners to internationally-known experts. The guild is active in local and regional Sheep-to-Shawl contests and has collected numerous awards. In addition to competing, members put on demonstrations of the art of spinning and weaving at community events, knitting shops, and schools..
“While the guild's focus is on hand spinning and weaving, many members also felt, knit, crochet, locker hook, and use other methods of turning raw fiber into finished product,” said Labrecque, president of American Alpaca Textiles, which specializes in home decor, upholstery fabrics, drapery and carpets. “Many members raise their own fiber-supplying animals, including sheep, alpacas, and goats."
A reception for the artists is set from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 2, in the art gallery. The exhibit and reception are free. The art gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.
For more information, contact Labrecque at 724-272-4285 or strwvr@zoominternet.net via email.
For more about the guild, visit www.butlerguild.org online.