ISSN 0826-7421
ALBERTA CRAFTS COUNCIL
DECEMBER/JANUARY, 1986
The Works:
ALBERTA CRAFT COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS (1 Year)
A Visual Arts
Individual membership S20.OO
Full-timestudent membership/Seniors$12.50 Association,regularvoting$50.00
Celebration
Association, non-voting $35.00
Commercial/lnstitution$50.00
Edmonton, Alberta: June 27 to July 6, 1986
COUNCIL CONTACTS PRESIDENT
Bonnie Murdoch
Calgary
246-6674
VICE-PRESIDENT Bobbi Hoffman Stony Plain 963-3042
SECRETARY Margaret Best Calgary 252-71%
TREASURER Don Smitten Edmonton
475-5593
DIREcroRS LeniBalaban Karen Cantine FortMcMurray Edmonton 790-1753
452-5615
Calgary
Don Doherty StonyPlain
SarabethCarnat 251-2437
AnnetteGreenberg
Katherine Hutton Edmonton 487-0714 4390861 Tony Mandamin Edmonton 483-6053
Edmonton
AREA REPRESENTATIVES Jan Slaughter Wendy Schneider
Fort McMurray
Bruderheim
ShannonRead Red Deer
Lynn Hunter-Johnston
791-6881
340-1734
796-3080
Lethbridge
ADMINISTRATIVEMANAGER BeverleyGlover #509, 10136- 100st., Edmonton,Alberta T5J OPI (403)428-1654 HANDSPIRITS EXHIBITION CO-ORDINATOR
CarolSheehan 823- 15street, N.W., Calgary, Alberta T5J OPI (403)270-2295
Advertisements printed in the Alberta Craft Newsletterdo not necessarilyimply endorsement by the Alberta Crafts Council.
COVER
AWARD WINNING SOFT SCULPTURE AT HARDISTY NURSING HOME see page 4
Art in the parks, on the streets, in buildingfoyers and plazas. The Works is a celebrationwhichsalutesthe visualarts. Uniquein Canada, The Works willembrace the entire spectrumof the visualarts, and willshowcasethe work of over 300artists. It will combinethe talents of localand regionalartists withthose of national and internationalreputations.This celebrationwillcapture the energy and imaginationof our communityby creatinga forum for the participationof artists, art organizations,clubs, guilds, art galleries,and art schools;and willcreate a dynamic environmentfor the exchange of ideas betweenartists and the general public. The Works will presentthe visualarts to a projectedaudienceof over 100,000and attract national media attention. It will offer programmingfor artists at the professional,student and amateur levels, and will presenteventsfor the enjoymentof an audienceof all age groups. Proposedcomponentsfor the 1986The Works include: Artists' Interchange
Artists/Critics/Curators invitedfromnationaland international
communitiesto meetwithresidentand visitingprofessionalartists, art students and the public. Exhibitions/lnstallations Artists and art organizationsare invited to produce their projects for outdoor displayas part of The Works forum. Project proposals are now being accepted for considerationby the Artistic Directors. The workswill facilitatethe productionof selectedproposals by providing: venues in Downtown Edmonton; an umbrella promotion cam-
palgn; and special goods and services, where required. Proposals
shouldcontain2-D informationonly and shouldinclude:project
description;slidesor drawings;resume;and detailedbudget estimate. If proposal is to be returned, a stamped, self-addressedenvelopemust be includedwith the submission.The Worksis not liablefor lossor damage to these proposals. Artists' Market An outdoor Artists' Marketwill be situatedin Edmonton's main Downtownpark, Sir WinstonChurchillSquare. 50 display sites are availablefor a nominal fee, for rental by individualartistsand arts organizations.Participantsare invitedto exhibitand sell their own work, or the workof their membership,and to inform festivalvisitors of their organizationsand its activities.Plan to participatein this new, highly visible market opportunity.
Artists at Work To the delightand fascinationof the public,artistswilldemonstrate their art processesand techniquesin demonstrationsitesdesignedfor this purpose.Individualartistsand art organizationsare invited to participatein this program. Children'sand Seniors'Art ActivityCentres Concertsand streetdanceswillbe presentedin cooperationwithEdmonton's renownedJazz CityFestival;street performerswillrave the Festivalsites. A volunteerforce of approximately150peopleworkingbehind the scenesand year round willbe requiredto prepare for and help operate The Works. Please add your name to our mailinglist if you are interestedin workingas a volunteer. The Works is endorsedand activelysupportedby The City Centre Associationand Alberta Part Art Publicaton(1981)Society. Artistic Directorof The Works is Wedman Fridman Art Consultants. For further informationand/or to submitproposals,pleaseco The Works c/o No. 616, 10136- 100street Edmonton, Alberta
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(403)426-2122 Page 2
Christmas Craft Marketing in Eastern Canada
My eyes eagerlysearchedthe patchworklandscape beneath me for the familiardowntownclusterand towerof Calgary. FinallyI spotted what I was lookingfor and reclinedin my seat, happy in the realization that 3 intensivemonths of productionand 3 intensiveweeksof sellingwereover for another year. I was returningfrom 2 major craft showsin easternCanada and knew that at last I wouldbe able to participatein normal Christmasactivitieswithmy familywho had hardly seenme for so long. As many of you know, major Christmascraft showsare exhausting and not always suitablyrewarding. You have to find the show that works for your particularcraft and consolidatean audiencewithin
that marketplace. I personallyfind the major showsin Eastern
met so many fascinatingcraftspeoplefrom all parts of Canada and it is wonderfulto share the problemsand pleasuresof being a professional craftspersoneach year. Some of these talentedpeople are now very good friends and we communicateoccasionallythroughoutthe year, but get down to serious 'catching-up' after show hours. The show closes at ten each night, but one is usually on such a 'high' that it
is virtuallyimpossibleto unwinduntil after midnight.This is also the time to discoversomethingabout Toronto's remarkablevarietyof
restaurants.
This year I decidedto expand my market into the Ottawa area hav-
ing heard so muchabout the successfulshowat LansdownePark. A large number of the Toronto showparticipantspack up and move on to Ottawa.I wasextremelyluckyto be ableto take a friendfrom Calgarywho has a sister in Ottawa and who is very capable when it comes to sellingmy toys. I helped set up the booth and returned to Calgary to wind up my wholesalecommitmentsand regain physical
Canada, particularlythe One-of-a-Kindshow in Toronto, to be most successfulin terms Of financialreturn and informed, appreciative customers.For those of you who do not know me or my craft, I should explain that I design and produce educationaltoys for preand mental strength. My stay was long enough to be able to assessthat schoolchildrenunderthe companyname of "Puddleduck& Mortarthe Ottawa show is a smaller, more homey type of craft marketing enboard Toys". I usedto be activelyinvolvedin the marketingof each vironment. There is an absence of the dazzle and sophisticationof item, however,demandrapidlyexceededabilityto produce, resulting involvingapproximately20 Toronto, but the public is as appreciative. in the creationof a cottage-industry BeforeI left Ottawa I wasable to gather somevaluableinformation home-workers. about sales techniques.The organizersof the show togetherwith the the Canadian participate in For 3 years I have flownto Toronto to CCC arranged a one-morningseminar on the topic. It was excellent Craft Show (One-of-a-Kind)whichis the largestjuried craft show in and I hope to be sharing this and other marketinginformationwith the country. This major event on the Toronto calendar runs for 10 you in the early months of 1986. days, withover450fine craftspeoplepresentingtheir finest for sale to I hope all of you enjoyed a successfulseason of craft sellingand Automotive the immense The venue is over 100,000potentialbuyers. of the wish you a happy and restful Christmasand New Year. Buildingin the CNE showgrounds.The owner/organizers show are 2 successfulToronto businessmenwho started One-of-aMargaret Best Kind Il years ago. These gentlemenhave a fine understanding Of demand public wants. They and what the craft, good business quality a high standard in terms of workmanship,booth displayand loyalty to the show. In returnthey offer the participantsa varietyof services and most important of all, exposure.From the minute you arrive in Toronto you are awareof the show. Postersare everywhere- particularlynoticeableare thosein illuminatedbus and street-carshelters.
Call
The night before opening there is a complete supplement in the Toron-
to Star with featurearticlesand a free advertisementfor each participatingcraftsperson.The TV and radio are also effectivelyused to pull bumpercrowds.In short the organizershave masteredthe art of advertising.This is somethingmany other craft showorganizershave
For Entry
yet to do properly. Christmas 1983marked my first year in the show. Unsure of the response I would receive, I attempted a five-dayparticipation. My
resultswere overwhelming,far better than I had ever achievedin showsin WesternCanada. To my surprise,I was the onlyAlbertan in the show. In 19841 decidedto take the ten-day plunge and returned home more delightedthan the previousyear. The good news had spread and I was pleasedthat other Albertans had taken part - Ernest and Agnes Ostlander,Martha Henry and Barbara Kreutter.This year the same Albertans appeared again as well as Bob Held (Skookum Glass).I was happy to be able to link up again with former Albertan, SylvieBouchard (silkpainter), who together with her fashion-designer sister, produced some very exciting garments that drew delighted
gaspsfrom the public.A fashionshow is run twicedailyinvolving professional models displaying woven, knitted, printed, painted garments and accessoriescreatedby the craftspeoplein the show. To pleasethe publicthere are 2 licencedrestaurantsas wellas a few fast food Kiosks.There is a professionallyoperated day-care so that parents may enjoy hassle-freeshopping. At the entrance is a massive Christmastree with a jolly Santa at its foot to hear your Christmas desiresand a colourfulclownwho distributedballoonsto the youngat-heart. The atmosphereis festiveand the buyingserious.
Besidesbeing totally satisfied yet again with my sales, I am pleased to know that I have establisheda definiteclientele.Many peoplesaw y advertisementin the previouslymentionedsupplementand came pecificallyto see me. I am now under a certainpressureto maintain interest in my line of toys by producinga new item each year. There is another apsect of the show that wouldbe a mistakenot to mention.The interactionwithother craftspeoplewho have alsotoiled long and hard in their individualstudios, is not to be missed.I have Page 3
Juried art and craft exhibitionsale, July 11th to 14th, 1986,in Banff,Alberta. Situated in the heart of the CanadianRockies,Banff is a major destinationfor tourists from around the world, creating an exciting international marketplace. Unique high quality Canadian art and crafts is in demand by these
multi-culturaltravellers. Scheduledat the close of the Calgary Stampedeand in the summer of EXPO '86 when population' peak, combin-
ed with total saturation of the Banff areoWithour promotion program, leadsto anticipatedhigh attendance. All potential exhibitors will be submitted to a jurying process to insure the highest of standards are maintained.
Originally,Canadiancontent,marketability,and overall exhibition balance will be considerations for acceptance.
Deadlinefor applicationis February28th, 1986. For applicationscontact: 'Art market '86 Marlene Loney, P.o. Box 385, Banff, Alberta, TOL OCO, (403)762-2345.
CRAFTS AT HARDISTY NURSING HOME Senior's residence, nursing homes and institutions are often overlookedas valuable craft resourcecentres, quality craft sale Haroutlets,and co-operativecraft studios.The Craft Programof theAlberEdmonton, Avenue, disty NursingHome locatedat 6420- 101 in a cota, is a supremeexampleof enthusiasticcraft peopleworking high many producing and operativesetting, sharing their expertise
quality, handcrafted items. on their Some of the residentsof the HardistyNursingHomework floor lower the on located Room, Therapy Occupational in the crafts The rooms. own their in crafts their of the residence;others workon on OccupationalTherapy Roomis open for crafts from 9:30- 11:30 many the co-ordinates Director, Program weekdays. Rose Stamper, craft projects offers creative suggestions.Together Withher assistant, LillianGreckol,Craft and Recreationaid, Rosemaintainsa well organized, highlyproductiveco-operativestudio. same Mrs. Peggy Dick has been knitting neckwarmersfrom the of yellowedpattern for the past twenty years. The rainbow display Therapy Mrs. Dick's neckwarmers,(on exhibit)in the Occupational Room, is impressive. interpretation This ChristmasMaryStricklandhas offeredher own Papa
ribbon in the summer of 1985.Furthermore, two other residents have
to the Children'sClassis,"Goldilocksand the Three Bears": Snowman, Mama Snowman, Baby Snowman. many These delightful Christmasdecorationshave brightened sixto twelve
from hearts this holiday season. The snowmen, averaging felt inches in height, all possesstheir own personal characteristics; unique. one each make hats, muffs and braidedwoolscarveshelp to However,each snowmanis sprinkledwith star dust: sparklesadhered with hairspray. Com-
Manyribbonshave beenwon at the KlondikeDay's Craft NurHardisty petitionsfor handicraftsthat havebeenproducedat thework of Terry embroidery meticulous the instance, For sing Home. of first couple a she holds Simola has rewardedher severaltimes; knitted lacy, the In addition, needlework. lovely for her place prizes priz.e second with a her honoured vests, fashionedby Mrs. Gibson,
been fortunateenoughto possessprizesfrom the exhibition:Mrs. Wilcox,for her crochet,and her husband, Jim for his macrame. Finally,the mostsuccessfulcraft projectundertakenat the Hardisty NursingHomeis a co-operativeeffortby fourof the home's residents. These four craftspeoplefabricatea soft doll that is dressedto represent a clown.Thesebright, adorabletoys, stand approximately18inches high and capturethe hearts of young and old. The clowndolls are made to perfection.The carefulworkmanship
by the craftspeoplewho contribute their skillsin the production of the clowndolls was recognizedin both 1984and 1985at the Klondike Days craft competitions.The clowndollsreceiveda first place finish. The dolls are almost completelyconstructedfrom scrap material Obtainedlargelyfrom donations.There is usuallya large, colourvaried selectionof clowndolls on displayin the OccupationalTherapy o Room and the dolls may be purchasedthere for a Veryreasonable price. Visitorsare welcomeat the HardistyNursingHome either to purchase the residents' handicrafts or to spend time with the residents sharingcraft experiences.Also, residentsappreciatethe time donated
by volunteersin the OccupationalTherapyRoomand the residents also appreciatedonationsof materialsmade by the public. Without donations of time and craft suppliesthe craft program at the Hardisty NursingHome wouldnot be as successful. The craftspeoplein seniors' residences,nursinghomes and institutions can be usedas resourcepeopleby other craftspeople.Their long
and intense dedicationto a craft results in an unprecedented understandingand expertisein that craft. Also, today's craftspersonwho is eager to revivetraditionalcrafts and traditionaltechniqueswouldfind a wealthof informationas a result of a visit to one of the many senior's craft centres in Alberta. Let's start recognizingand utilizingthese craft centresand enthusiasticcraftspeople.
OPPORTUNITIES EFCL Central Registry of Instructors
The Edmonton Federationof CommunityLeagueshas a registry listingthe namesof potentialinstructorsfor its ownuse. The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL) is the governing body over all the individualcommunityleaguesin the Edmontonarea. A new edition of their registrywill be publishedin the near future. Pleasewriteor call the EFCLif you wouldlike to have your name includedon their list Ofinstructors: The EdmontonFederationof CommunityLeagues 7103 - 105Street Edmonton,Alberta T6E 408 Phone: 434-7112 Try Sharingyour talentswithotherscan be both fun and enriching.
Instructor Registry at ACC
Are you interestedin teachinga craft courseor workshop?Please forward your name, phone number, address and the name of the craft(s)you would be interestedin teachingto the AlbertaCrafts Council.Presently, a registryof craft instructorsis being compiled whichwillenable the ACC to assistin meetingthe needsof organizations in their searchfor craft teachers. One of the organizationsthat ha.sexpressedan interest in our InstructorRegistryis the FurtherEducationCouncil.In addition, Parks and Recreation,and other educationalinstitutionsare on the list organizationsto be informedof this service.Registernow! o Alberta Crafts Council No. 509, 10136- 100Street Edmonton,Alberta
Page 4
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Phone:428-1654
Handspirits Opening Ft. McMurray, November 8, 1985 HANDSPIRITSwas receivedwithgreat excitementin Ft. McMurray as wellas with a lot of preparatorywork. Problemspresentedby a small displayspace with limitedlighting were ably solvedby Co-ordinatorSheehan, who used librarycoffee tables stacked and arranged to a very intimate and warm setting, which was still unclutteredenough for groups Of people to walk around and view each piece.
tend The beautifulpostersare alreadycollectors'itemsup here and talkI have to people according hung, being after to disappearquickly areas. ed to...they were displayedin public as wellas restaurant was exhibition The coverage. radio press and good of There waslots who LeMessurier, Mary Culture warmlyreceivedby the Ministerof expressedpleasureat seeingit again. successful The visiting artists were well-receivedand had arranging. Services Cultural McMurray to Ft. thanks workshops, positiveThe responsefor havingthe exhibitionhere has beenvery crafts Alberta it has reallyopened peopleeyes to what is beingdone in one?", which the next "When is like: questions today. I keep hearing reallyshowspeople's interestin the arts up here.
Native Spirits to extend most sincere The Washeesh Cultural Society wishestheir staff, members of Council, Crafts Alberta the gratitudeto event of our ancillary an of 'Handspirits',for their endorsement to acknowledgement Of mention special with a show; Spirits' 'Native BobbiHoffman. to Bobbi for her insight in NativeSpiritsfeelssincerelyindebted of representationOfall concept new the with recognizingthat a show point withinthe starting a needed talent aspectsof NativeCultureand offer endorseto ACC realm Ofthe 'art world', and approachedtheco-ordinatorand master As production. ment of this all new Native muchneededhelp and mind OfNativeSpirits,withthe assistanceanddeservingthat Bobbibe only it is feel I Desjarlais, supportof Dwayne not onlyencouragebut commendedfor her efforts and generositytofantasy. That realityhas a than more into an idea to assistin making Spirits. Native of presentation now becomea wellreceivedNative the 'Societies' ACC, the by Spirits Native of Endorsement the With fulfillingits scopeof the point of viewas artisans, that the Council isof the Nativecomponent. 'Arts Media' and findingthe 'missinglink' and those The Councilcan be a veryusefulsourcefor craftspeople gain by can only encouragement who are fortunate enough to have the
o
expertiseat workshops It offers teaching at all levelsand can provide provideaccessibility also can It modes. educating or at other meansof endorsement, the Societo livinga traditional life style. With the ACC its objectivesin more meeting to step major a take ty has been able to commendation.Thank ways than one and reiteratesits gratitudeand you. (You have pleased N.B. The Co-ordinatorwishesto say Kitatamihin, following: to the Cree me) writingand Dwayne Desjarlais,for all his innate and verycapable to encouragement, of words typing talents as well as his inspiring Wakefieldfor her talentin (Martha) Marty partner, GloriaLiard, my following: being arrogant, confident,and to all the Carol, Jan, Bond, A.C.C., Donna, Debby Bev, Hoffman; Bobbi LillianSowray;Jane Harrison, Ron Culture, patti Trautman- Alberta Local 1885:clifford Margaret Soger- Native Secretary,Stan Plante, Redcrow- Fort Lucas Alberta; of Freeman - Indian Association McMurray Fort Chadie John McMurray Nistawayou Centre; Nistawayou McMurray Fort Johnson-Kalin Ella NistawayouCentre; Centre; Malcolm Centre; Herman - Fort McMurray Nistawayou Quintal.Rose Martha Models: School. Mercredi Father Gladue Jr. Jr. of the Gladue Malcolm Nokoho; Mercerdi- Linda Bouchier;Rich High Mercredi Father Father Mercredi School, Students of the Tracie Roberta, Delphone, Robert, School, Fort McMurray. dancer - EdmonBellegarde;dancer - EdmontonLionelYellowbird; Campiou,Jr. Fred to especially and Society & ton WasheeshDancers wisdomof keen his for Washeesh, ProgramDirectorand Founderof Washeesh. pleasing1986. Thank you all and very MerryXmas and a most
took place at the Fort The premier showing of Native SpiritsNovember 23rdand 24th, Centre, Friendship Nistawoyou McMurray but more efaudience by the received 1985,and was enthusiastically level. community and fectivelyby those involvedat the productionspite of many factors, in success a was The show in its presentation one. withveryextremecoldweatherbeinga major of Native Culture, art, comprised is Spirits' The show, 'Native part. It providesa trade craft, dance, drama, talent and legendin Martha Campiou-Zarutzky provinceas wellas localthe across from crafts showof a collectionof Co-ordinator,NativeSpirits of knowledge but entertainment ly. The showof dance not onlyoffers highlightof NativeSpiritsis the the variousdancesand costumes.The of stagecraft portrayinglegend all new 'FashionPlay'; a newconceptaddinga twistto the conclusion Corporate Gift Program 1986 and followingit for the most part but society.The playersand actors to keep in tune withmodernrolesand localpeople.The'play' as well,is are the dancers, someexhibitorsand Council dance costumes,designsand actual There willbe a meetingheld at the Alberta Craftsp.m. the All a show of Fashion, showing not 2:30 is at 1986, concept 16th, January new the of Thursday, The idea office on craft articlesof all the participants. to the Proof Gift capabilities Corporate promotethe membersinterestedin participatingin the only to show designand craft but to broadenthe scopeof awareness ideas Further gram are welcometo attend. Pleasebringyour valuable individuals. multi-talented Spirits.The conorganizingcommittee Native the with view discussed or be to partake suggesions who and all OfNativeCultureto and co-ordinatorwas not just to take and fellowACCmembers. cept in the mindof the inventor that the community but such; as show If you are unable to attend the meeting, but wishto take part as a the show to a community conceptionto its of use make further the CorporateGift Program, pleasewrite us at the office in couldin fact adopt the idea andlevelof awarenessin the 'Arts media'. prior to January 16th. developtheir owncommunity is morethan a Nativedance group, Society awareness. The WasheeshCultural promotionof Nativecultureand Page 5 its objectivesare for the
The Calgary 1988 Winter Games
A crafts exhibitionis one of the posible projects welcomingideas
OPPORTUNITIES
from craft groups and individuals across the country.
For further information: Crafts Committee,OCO '88 P.o. Box 1988,Stn. 'C' Calgary,Alberta
THE JEAN A. CHALMERSFUND FOR THE
T2T 5R4
CRAFTS
is availableto the Canada Each year an amount of up to S50,OOO Council to support special projects, researchand specialworkshops for the crafts in Canada.Thissum, knownas the Jean A. Chalmers Fund for the Crafts, representsthe income from an endowmentof $500,000made to the Councilby Jean A. Chalmersof Toronto. The Jean A. ChalmersFund for the Crafts enables the VisualArts Sectionto assistgroups of professionalcraftspeopleor non-profit craft organizationswhich wish to conductinnovative,experimental, and creativeprojectsthat have a theoreticalor practicalapplicationin the developmentor advancementof the crafts in Canada. The Visual Arts Sectionprovidespartial fundingfor specialactivitieson a onetime basisas follows: Special Projects Activitiesthat qualify as SpecialProjects are seminars,symposia, conferencesor special publications.Applicationswill be assessedon the merit of the project and on its relevanceto those working in cr{fts. SpecialProjectsshould contributeto the creativedevelopmentof the professionalcraft communityand shouldhave a potential impact on the general public. ResearchProjects
Stony Plain Multicultural Centre
The next sessionof courseswillbeginlate January, early February. Coursesinclude Ukrainian WillowBasket Weaving, Parka Making, Mukluk and MoccasinMaking, Oil Painting, Rose Making, Ukrainian EggDecorating,Wheat Weaving,Spinning, Instructionin Weaving MoosehairTufting, Introductionto German or French, Introduction of 35 mm Camera, Publicity Workshop and Genealogy For further information: Pam Tovey Stony Plain MulticulturalCentre Box 908, 5411- 51 Street Stony Plain, Alberta TOE 2GO Phone: 963-2777
CanadianCraft Conference August 14 - 19, 1986
The comingof age of professionalism.TopicswillincludeChanging PublicPerceptions,Codesof Ethics,The Professionalas Advocate, The Changing Social Condition, Potential for NewOpportunities, Taxes and Tariffs, Creatingthe Future. International events and meetingsof the Canadian Crafts Council will take place immediatelyfollowingConference '86 from Monday, August 18th to Wednesday,August20th, 1986.All interestedconference delegateswill be invited to attend.
Non-profit craft organizations or individuals serving the needs of
the professionalcraft communitymay apply for research grants to cover the direct costs of investigatingor documentingexistingor new theories and practisesin the crafts. Researchgrants may be usedto coverfeesfor specializedservices, consultingfees, specialmaterials,or specialequipmentrental, (not to exceed25 per cent Ofthe total amount applied for), travel costs, and miscellaneousexpenditures.Requestsfor purchase of equipmentare not eligible. On completionof the research,the recipientmust submita detailed final report to Councilbeforeanother grant is requested.Information containedin the final report willbe consideredpublicinformation. Special Workshops This program is intended to enable professionalcraft organizations to invite professional artists to conduct short-term intensive workshops. Only workshops designed for active members of an organizationengaged in advanced creative applicationsare eligible. The Councilwillcoveran honorariumof $200a day, travelcosts(if applicable),'the rental cost of special equipment, and fees for
Convergence'86
The biennialconferenceof HandweaversGuildof America,for the first time in Canada. A major fibre event preceded and followedby
workshops. Open to 2,500 registrants. Cohosted by the Ontario Crafts Council.
For further information: Convergence '86 346Dundas Street West Toronto, Ontario
specialized services,
MST IG5
Deadlinedatesfor all componentsof this programare as follows: 1 March 1986 1 September 1986
The Great Canadian Crafts Festival Call For Entry
All applicationsare assessedby a jury. Resultswillbe availableapproximatelysix weeks after the deadline dates. For further informationcontact: FrancinePerinet, VisualArts Section, The Canada Council,P.O. Box1047,Ottawa, Ontario KIP 5V8.
ART BANK SEEKS FABRICS
The Canada CouncilArt Bank reports there is a strongdemand for architecturaltextiles,tapestries,etc. for loan to its clients.The Art Bank is looking for top qualityweavingsto add to its collection.If your work might meet the exactingstandards of the Art Bank, submit IS slidesand your completeresumeto: TCCAB, 2279GladwinCrescent, Ottawa, Ontario KIB 4K9.
FREE ACC WILL PUBLISH YOUR PROFILE
1986 Shows
April 25, 26, 27 - Round-UpCentre,Calgary May 2, 3, 4 - Northlands Sportex, Edmonton
November21, 22, 23 - Northlands Agricom, Edmonton November 28, 29, 30 - Round-Up Centre, Calgary
Your applicationto "the Great CanadianCrafts Festival"will be screenedfor Canadiancontent, quality of crafts, marketability, displayeffectiveness and overallbalanceof crafts in the show. We are the onlyshow in Alberta that offers you, the seller, excellent
marketingopportunities in Alberta'stwo largesturbancentres- Ed-
montonand Calgary. In addition, we are Calgary's onlymajor professionalcrafts event. Dates: Spring shows Discount Deadline: December 31, 1985
Member craftspersons wishingto be representedin the Alberta Craft Newsletterare askedto write a brief profileon themselvesincluding two photographs for submissionto: Alberta Crafts Council
509, 10136- 100Street Edmonton, Alberta T5J OPI Attention: NewsletterEditor This is your opportunity to let others knowabout you and your craft, establish contacts, and share techniques. Page 6
ApplicationDeadline February 15, 1986.
Winter ShowsApplicationdeadline May 15, 1986 For further information:
Crafts FestivalUnlimited No. 20, 14620- 126street Edmonton, Alberta
T5X 2J9
Phone: Allan Dawes 476-6722.
For further information,pleasecall 432-2528(Universityof Alberta HistoricCostumeCollection).
Volunteer Hosts Needed for "A Century of Cold Weather Clothing."
Over the past century, Edmontonians have devisednumerous ways
of dressingfor the winter. Still, eventoday many peoplefind it difficult to be outside during the colder months. Much of this has to do
with dress. Earlier this year, a large team of clothingspecialists, historical researchers,museum workers and design artists at the Universityof Albertaco-operatedin lookingcarefullyat the materials, construction,stylesof dress,etc., that have beenworn from the time of Fort Edmonton to the present day. An appeal to the public
for loans or donations of authentic items of winter dress resulted in many, many pieces. The final selectionsprovidemany examples,both unique and common: bulky hand-madeturn-of-the-centuryindoor wear and twenty-firstcentury light-weightinsulatedouterwear,immigrant homesteaders'clothingand luxuryfurs from Jasper Avenue,
sportswearfrom the 30's and 40's and fur-trappers'outfits,old-
fashionedteddy-bear snowsuitsand contemporaryparkas, etc. Expect to see many reminders from winters past and numeroussuggestions
for futureseasonsat this first-in-Canada exhibitionof coldweather
clothing.
We invite individualswith an interestin clothingor clothes-making or historyor public speakingor communityeducationto carry across the theme of this exhibitionto the hundreds of visitorswho are expected to serve as hosts at the exhibition. Volunteerswith an interestin displays or constructionare also sought to help assemblethe tableau and panels prior to the exhibition'sopening.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Members! Do you know of any upcomingevents that could be included in our Calendar of Events Column? If you do, contact Julie at the Alberta Crafts Council Office and we will help spread the word. December7 - January 11 Craft Exhibition Edmonton
Edmonton's Snowflake Fantasy
SnowflakeFantasy,Edmonton's new celebrationof winter, takes place February 14 - 23, 1986.A feature event is Polar Promenade,
Saturday,February22 from noon to 5:00 p.m. in the heart of
downtown. The indoor - outdoorroute is a walkabout encompassinghotel & skyscraper lobbies, LRT stations, storefronts, theatres, galleries, parks, pedways & department stores. Activitiestaking place include humorousperformers- mimes,clowns,ventriloquists,contortionists: ethnic dancers, fiddlersand an outdoorbeach party. Severalstory telling areas willhighlight humerousand outrageoustales. Snow and ice sculptures,NFB films and winter craft displayswill occupylobby spaces.
We are invitingyour support of and participationin this exciting new event. Space/facilitiesare availablefor guilds,associationsand societieswishingto display their craft works. Help us to enlivenand enjoy the winter months by exhibitingyour quilts, weavings,pottery, dollsor whatever. Contact: SheldonWilner/DickFinkel420-1451
CLASSIFIEDS Marketingtags - The Alberta Crafts Counciloffice has marketingtags availablefor our membersat a break-evencost of $3.00per 100(includes postage). Anyone interested in obtaining these tags for their display items is asked to contact the ACC office. Studio to share- Fabric Printing Studio. Call Katherineafter 5:00pm.
439-0861.
HandspiritsHasti-Notes-due to a limitedsupply,hasti-noteswillno longer be availablefrom the AlbertaCrafts CouncilOffice.
GRANDPRIX DES METIERD'ART 1985— A National travellingcraft exhibition.Locatedat BeaverHouse Gallery, 3rd Floor, 10158- 103Street, Edmonton, Alberta.
SINICUS SILK CO. (RL߀ßTR) LTD.
December7 - December21 Edmonton
ANGELS SCULPTURE: Margaret Losinski at the
WE SPECIALIZE IN
Vanderleelie Gallery, 12, 11523- 100 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta.
• Silks, Wools, and European Exotic fabrics
December 18 - January 7
Exhibition Provincial Museumof Alberta presents Galleryof Dolls.
• Silk Dyes (Steam or Non-steam)
January 11 - January 12
• Hand-Hemmed Scarves
Seminar Calgary English Potter MichaelCasson,guest lecturer.Further information contact: Ceramics Canada, 7056d Farrel Rd., S.E., Calgary, Alberta. (403)255-f1575.
• Silk Threads
• Exclusive resist applicator with metal tip
January 6 - January 20 Exhibition StonyPlain, Alberta ART GALLERY RENTAL — presentedby the Oppertshauser
• "Painting on Silk" Classes, Books, and Supplies
Houseinvitesyou to find out howto rent artworkfor your homeor office.An informalopeningwill be held Sunday, January12, I pm - 3 pm at 5019- 51 Avenue,StonyPlain, Alberta.
• One day workshop offered by professional silk painters.
January 9 - January 25 Exhibition Calgary STATIONS OF A DREAM — works by Jane Pawson, presented by 2nd Story Gallery,1106aMemorialDr., N.W. Calgary,Alberta. Open Noon - 5 pm, closedSunday.
VOLUME DISCOUNTS AND MAIL ORDER AVAILABLE
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o Silk Fabrics& Accessories o Ste.300. 229- 11thfive. S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2GOY1 (403) 263-2264 Page 7
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#509 10136-100 st.
Edmonton,Alta. T5J OPI (403) 428-1654
Bobbi Hoffman
Box 33, Site 5, R.R. Stony Plain, Alberta
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Alberta Expo '86 Review Many of you will recall a request for submissions early last spring, to demonstrate on the Alberta Pavilion Expo '86. Over 30 proposals were received ranging from ice sculpting and dough art to leather carving and silk painting. Laraine Barby, Alberta Pavilion Manager, developed a shortlist and then visits were made to each
shortlisted artist by Laraine and Debbie Appleby of
Alberta
Crafts Council. The final decision for demonstrators was Pat Galbraith, Clay and Ice Sculptor; Pirkko Karvonen, Weaver, Debbie Morgan, Wheat Weaver; and Tony Wispinski, Wood Carver. The criteria used were I) the amount of equipment; supplies and working space required (the available demonstration area is minimal), 2) noise level (the demonstration area is within the Travel Alberta Counselling area), 3) how well it relates to Alberta, 4) the amount of time required
before results can be seen, and 5) whether it would contribute an
element of "Fun" yo-the pavilion. The four selected demonstrators met all the above criteria and have been asked to demonstrate for two weeks in July and August of '86. 9
Pat Galbraith will be doing clay and plasteline sculpting indoors and will do one ice sculpture each day on the outdoor performing
stage. Pat received the 1984 Gold Medal for outstanding achievement in ice sculpture from the Master Ice Sculptors of Japan.
In her proposal Pat wrote: " Using ice to create a sculpture is unusual and 'catchespeople's attention very quickly. Doing ice sculpture in the middle
of summer could be
crowd pleaser, I'm sure, and would
capture their interest and stimulate their imagination. Ice sculpture is fun to watch in progress, a delight to view when
completed, and has the precious quality of having a short lifespan. Today's sculpture is seen today, then it's gone and
a new.one will be produced tomorrow. Pirkko Karvonen will be demonstrating weaving of coiled baskets and will work on frame looms and inkle looms. As well she will be spinning raw material into thread and will then display the applica'tion of natural products in dying fibres. Pirkko will have many projects on the go, from which she will Change back and forth. It is a pleasure to have such a distinguished weaver as one of the demonstrators. Debbie Morgan of Camrose has extensive knowledge of the
history and development of wheat weaving. She approaches her work from a very traditonal aspect and loves teaching classes. Her
students are often a source of further knowledge as many remember designs, techniques and history from their parents and grandparents.Wheat weavingcame to Canada with the early set-
tlers but died with the onset of combines and machinery. It is experiencing a strong resurgence and is certainly representative of the settlers here in Alberta as well as the importance of wheat to our province. Tony Wispinski is one person known to all through his feature article contained in the October newsletter. He is a very keen and en-
thusiastic individualwho will add tremendouslyto the spirit of
Expo.The faces he carves, each with its own personality, are such that people from around the world will be intrigued. The demonstration will be another contribution to the "warm and friendly" Alberta pavilion.
On November 29, 1985, the Honourable Tom Chambers, Minister
of Public Works, Supply and Services, handed over the key of the
pavilion to the Honourable BIT Payne, Minister Responsible for Expo. The offices on-site are now open and in full operation. To date,
the response, particularly from the media, has been terrific with
many favourable articles written. Alberta is the third pavilion to be operational on-site so we are
well advancedin comparisonto others. All staff are hired, the ex-
hibits are being installed, and the restaurant is progressing well. We anticipate being ready to go by April 15, which will allow for two full weeks of staff training and last minute preparations.
Three-daypasses are now on sale at all Royal Banks with considerable savings in comparison to gate prices. Expo '86 is just next door! Don't miss it for the world!
Fibre at Grant MacEwan Community College The Fibre Art Program at Grant MacEwan Community College will be accepting portfolios from Feb. 18 - 28. This exciting, innovative program, beginning its sixth year in September, 1986 has increased the
design possibilities and provided direction to aspiring artists in the
Fibre Art medium. Although relatively new as a professional artistic medium, it has grown in exposure and popularity in recent years. The Fibre program at Grant MacEwan has been instrumental in the development of this artistic form.
As a major discipline within the Visual Arts program, Fibre
students acquire basic design skills which provide a solid base for further development. This rapidly expanding program now offers complete papermaking facilities as well as the opportunity to meet with numerous visiting guest artists of national and international reputation. The first year in the program begins with art and design including
drawing, design fundamentals, basic textile construction,
photography, art history, communications and elective courses. Textile construction, including four and multiharness weaving and
non-loomtechniqueslike felting, knotting, basketry, sprang, netting
and papermaking, are researched in the second year. Students use the techniques to develop a "personal, visual language" in image making or sculptural applications of fibre. Surface design methods such as block, screen and photoscreen
printing, batik and fabric painting are also taught. Fibre/Fabric
Preparation and Finishing covers spinning and dying, chemical and structural finishes, and textile conservation. Students are encouraged to explore and develop personal directions in the textile medium, from clothing, costume, or fabrics for interiors, to image making, sculpture and installation work. A guided study tour
of New York galleries and artists' studios is offered each year to
broaden perspectives of textile students. Prospective students may call Carole West at 483-2372 or Carla Costuros, Co-ordinator of Fibre, at 483-4411 for further program, portfolio and application information.