Down Under Textiles magazine

Down Under Textiles magazine Issue 9, in which my story "A Goat in a Coat" was published, made it's way to India with Rhonda Preece on her Textile Traditions Tour, a few months ago. The story was about the wonderful time I had on the tour last year, and of the interesting Indian textile traditions we had seen. Above-Anukram R translates the story for Rashid, his son and grandson. Rashid was the Master block printer we visited in Jaipur.

The Patola weaver Dharamshi holding the magazine while talking to the TT April group.

At Mr Wazir's home, one of his son's inspects the story. I so loved this tour and the experiences, that I have booked for Rhonda's new 11 day Wilderness, Wildlife and Weaving tour in November 2013. If you'd like to join me, please go to the
 Textile Traditions website for information and a booking form. I am happy to answer any questions about the experience, if you email me personally.

 

Open studios

Open studios this weekend in the Boonah/Aratula area include the fabulous rural studio of my friend Ali George of Aliquilts at  169 Niebling Rd, Tarome. She will be demonstrating, along with friends Mel Forrest, Chris Jones and Sue George who will share their beautiful work. Open from 9am- 4pm on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a day in the country.
 

A bird's eye view

We climbed the 160 narrow, winding stone steps to the top of the Kosice Cathedral tower for a great bird's eye view of the surrounds. A wire mesh kept us safe, from toppling over the edge.

The roof mosaic shows the double cross, Slovak National symbol.

 

Mad Quilters Gathering

More quilty fun  in Brisbane for this weekend from Friday May 24-Sunday May 26 at the RNA Showgrounds and the Mad Quilters Gathering. I haven't been to one but heard good reports about the 2012 event. Down Under Quilts magazine is a sponsor.

Quilt exhibition

This is coming to Brisbane! We are lucky indeed to have the opportunity to visit the Quilts 1700-1945 exhibition at the Queensland Art Gallery from June 15- September 22, 2013. This is a ticketed event but you can also buy a season pass allowing multiple entry. Many of the quilts are from the Victoria and Albert Museum in England. The famous Rajah quilt 1841, made by convict women will also be on display.
Ruth Stoneley is also honoured with an exhibition, A Stitch in Time from July 13- October 7 at the QAG. Ruth was a pioneer in the Queensland and Australian quilting industry.

Bardejov local fun

Turned up in Bardejov where the locals were dressed in costume and had all manner of old bikes, to celebrate the start of the cycle season. No better reason for a drink!

Bob couldn't resist a photo of everyone and then was into the Slivovica!

They all cycled off for a lunchtime BBQ.

Betliar heaters

I got a bit carried away by the variety of heaters in Betliar, the luxurious 16th century mansion in Slovakia. We had paid for the privilege to use our cameras, a small extra charge with the entrance fee for the tour, and this place was so full of the most amazing things.

Always situated in the corners, but certainly too lovely to be ignored.

A petite one compared to most we saw.

This fabulous, over the top one was Italian and 1 of the last 3 surviving world wide. Hand painted scenes and details make it special. Mansion height ceilings accommodate it easily.

And a very modest one to finish off the selection, from an ordinary room.