10
|
The Liverpool Tapestry:
People, Places and Passions
By the end of that first workshop, 73 people had arrived and
registered to take part. We were a little unprepared for such a large
number, but people were very patient – thanks to the regular supply
of tea and coffee laid on by helpers from the Guild – and everyone
went away with their canvas, wool, frames (till we ran out – Geoff
had to make another huge batch before the next workshop!) and
buzzing with ideas. The range of people involved went from the
young (our youngest participant was 8 years old) to the eldest (Ada,
who was 92), the able bodied to the physically handicapped and
those with learning difficulties, and all skill levels ranging from
complete beginner to the former head of textiles at Newsham
college. The workshop had passed in a blur and the project was on
its way. At the end of the day Elsie and I, with voices a little hoarse
and still reeling from the numbers that had turned up, began to
appreciate that perhaps this project was going to go somewhere
special.
The subjects for the tapestry squares are representative of many
facets of Liverpool. They range from the very personal to the
iconic; from domestic and family memories to the culture of the
city. And, of course, as in all good sponsored projects, we had to
mention our sponsor…
Joe had asked that Home Bargains be included somewhere in the
design, which Elsie and I had already anticipated and prepared a
draft design for. However, the vexed question was who was going
to stitch this piece. The following email exchange answers that
particular question….
Joe:
“
Can I be cheeky and ask if we could get a home Bargains
shop in the tapestry (even if I have to do it myself)?”
Gill:
“
I had already suggested this to Elsie, so there will be a square
with your name on it ready for you.....! And perhaps you should
practice what you preach and take part (or get one of your family,
friends or employees to do it for you....)”
Joe:
“
Right, I love a challenge! Book me in for some lessons!”
Joe discussing his design with Elsie Watkins and
Joyce Whitfield