Spring Has Sprung

An exhibition of work by members of the Taupo Embroiderers’ Guild since their last exhibition in May 2017.

‘Stitch-ins’ will be held in the gallery by members from 11am to 2pm on Saturday 21st Sept (opening day), and 1030am Saturdays 19th and 26th October; visitors will be able to see a variety of embroideries in progress, find out more about the guild, purchase a calendar featuring members’ items, and even buy a raffle ticket.

Displays of embroideries not able to be included in the exhibition will be in the Taupo Public Library during the same period.

Taupo Embroiderers’ Guild has just celebrated its 35th birthday, having grown from initially being part of the Taupo Society of Arts to holding meetings in members’ homes and other venues to being well established at the Vintage Car Club rooms in A C Baths Ave every Wednesday and alternate Tuesdays from 9.30 till noon. These meetings are work sessions really, plenty of stitch and chat and exchange of ideas/patterns/expertise/information plus some classes and group learning. Have a cup of tea, and a browse in the extensive library.

There are currently 39 members, with varying degrees of expertise and interest, some excel at a particular technique, others try everything but have particular favourites, some are more creative and experimental. New members are always welcome and can be assured they will be assisted and guided and supported in learning new skills as they wish – you definitely don’t have to be already an embroiderer. One has to start somewhere – teaching a class as part of the Museum and Library school holiday programme has been a real joy for some members this past year while introducing new skills to youngsters keen to learn.

Taupo Embroiderers’ Guild is one of 58 throughout NZ affiliated to the Association of New Zealand Embroiderers’ Guilds (ANZEG) which enables boundless opportunities for mixing with and learning from others on so many levels including exhibitions, conferences, weekend stitching retreats, workshops, visiting other guilds, and the twice-yearly publication ‘Threads’.

Visitors to the exhibition are invited to vote for their favourite piece, always a difficult choice, and while very little will be for sale there are some embroideries/ goody bags as raffles.

Taupo Museum is open 7 days. Entry is free to Taupo locals with proof of address and to all children. Adults $5, Seniors and Students $3.