What an incredible event this was!
HOW busy?
Now, I know, I had a few cauliwobbles along the way and I was working hard all year developing, designing and making finished hangings, cushions and a multitude of kits and patterns.
Looking Colourful
But I did it! I got it all done and the stall looked wonderful and professional.
The Other View
I was really blessed by the amount of people who had traveled from London, Wales, Liverpool, Durham and other places who came up to say they enjoyed my blog and wanted to meet the ‘Madbird’.
Stags Fell
I was touched by their warmth, encouragement and positive feedback on my wildlife hangings.
Listening Hares
- You forget, well I do, that each piece of artwork has behind it years of practice:
- many a mistake, many a plan/design failure, items stuffed to the back of cupboards unfinished, ideas thought of and forgotten, and a maze of progression – one step forward and three sideways.
- What now comes more easily, like the free motion quilting, was once very hard.
“Tea Time!” Hens
Many a conversation was had on my unique style and approach to free machine quilting and encouraging folk to go home and have a go.
Even Stewart from the Great British Sewing Bee came to my stall and said how interesting the hangings were. *Almost* fame at last!
Madbird!
My husband and youngest helped me set up…. and clear down and transport all the boxes, drapes, lights and even my bird table to and from Hawes.
Pen-Y-Ghent – glorious drive down
He also helped with all the design and printing of the ‘Madbird : Make and Take Kits’. It was amazing how many patterns and kits sold. I really do hope the bring some fun and enjoyment into people’s lives. I also have a three commissions to get my teeth into.
Redwork Designs & Samples
I had a really encouraging weekend, and for my first ever show it was better than I could have imagined.
If my dad could see me now I’m certain he may even burst with pride.
I have fulfilled an incredible idealistic dream – be an designer, artist and maker and have my work appreciated and bought. Never thought that the dream would materialise. It has. It is amazing how far I’ve progressed artistically in the last 18 months.
Ingleton to Hawes Road
What a gorgeous ride home through the evening sunlight.
Hawes Bound
And home at last.. feet up… takeaway… a beer… and an a quieter week ahead (possibly).
ah….. sigh… home
PS : Amazing. I had a lovely lady in the Chapel Gallery today who had been at Yarndale, travelled up from Bristol for a week’s holiday so she could attend the event, only to discover she lived in the town I grew up in, Calne, and her husband lived in Lacock.
Our world can be incredibly small and wonderful.
If you came to Yarndale, or you didn’t, THANK YOU to all of you who have helped me pick my way through life and for your encouragement, feedback and guidance.
Anne x
Fantastic – so pleased for you. You are an inspiration and so lovely with it – Hawes is blessed with some talent. Had a super week in cornwall but missed Yarndale for it! Just had my daylight bendy standard lamp delivered (a gift from Bruce) so that i can get creative all winter without ruining my eyesight! Well done xx
Wow! How lovely of Bruce to treat you to a light. Lucky girl. So pleased to have reconnected you with the enjoyment of stitching. I hope you enjoyed Cornwall. Be lovely to see you soon. I’ve a new workshop listing to take us up to Christmas. Anne
you Ticked alot of TICKS!! and should be proud!!!!You’re a CLEVER inspiring woman!!!!!
Always good to tick things off a to-do list Jeanette. (Mind you – part way down my lists can be found hidden treasures from ‘make some one smile’ to ‘solve world hunger’. One is obviously by far easier to tick than the other!). Thank you for your kindness and support. Anne