A homesteader weaving on a cooperative loom. Courtesy of Library of Congress.
On June 22, AHI will host “Common Threadsâ€, a show that will celebrate the history of hand-weaving and other fabric and fiber crafts in Arthurdale. Local artists will demonstrate their craft, teach classes, network, and swap supplies.
A special exhibit, “Weaving Legacies: Arthurdale’s Handweavers and the Craft Revival†will highlight the links between Arthurdale’s weaving program and broader national trends in the 1930’s.
The celebration of this new exhibit will include presentations by Sarah Fletcher (daughter of master weaver and Arthurdale homesteader Dorothy Thompson) and Philis Alvic, an eastern Kentucky weaver whose book, Weavers of the Southern Highlands, explores historic weaving programs in Appalachia.
The day begins at 10:00 with classes and demonstrations. These include a knit-in with Tracy Struther, quilting show by the Homestead Quilters Guild, weaving exhibits, plus spinning and dyeing demonstrations. For children, there will be tie dye and macramé workshops. A “scrap swap†will allow fiber artists to trade materials and supplies. At 11:30, Sarah Fletcher will speak and show samples of her mother’s work. A light lunch will follow, and the event will end with Philis Alvic’s discussion and book signing.
Interested in demonstrating, teaching, or participating in “Common Threads”? Contact the office. Our website and Facebook page will keep you up to date on final plans for the day.
