Whilst visiting The Old Chapel Textile Centre at New Greenham Park this week we were treated to a viewing of a spectacular piece of textile work called ‘The Country Wife’.
We were shown around by a charming lady who told us the story behind the work and how it came to be here. She allowed us to take some photographs to share with you. Here are the pics with story to follow…
‘The Country Wife’ was designed by acclaimed textile artist Constance Howard in 1951 for the Festival of Britain. It’s 5m wide x 4.5m high and depicts the activities of women in rural communities during this era.
This stunning 3D fabric picture requires cleaning and conservation and is open to the public while the work is in progress.
The National Needlework Archive is a registered charity who work closely with communities, museums, guilds and universities to promote textiles, textile eduation and research.
They need help to conserve this beautiful piece of history – if anyone is interested in this project you can contact the organisation here to find out what you might be able to do:
The Old Chapel Textile Centre Main Street, Greenham Park, Newbury, Berkshire, RG19 6HW. Tel: 01635 38740 www.nationalneedleworkarchive.org.uk email: info@nationalneedleworkarchive.org.ukIt really is a stunning piece of 3d work, so many amazingly tiny details… if you get a chance do go and see it – it costs £2.50 to get a personal viewing which goes towards the restoration fund – and you can also get a cuppa whilst you’re there!
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I SAY, I SAY, I SAY