Seaside Quilters exhibition a creative feast

YOLANDE DU PREEZ|Published 6 months ago

Fish Hoek’s Seaside Quilters are currently showcasing their beautiful creations at an exhibition in the Dutch Reformed Church.

Visitors can see a variety of quilts, fibre art, batik material from Bali, and handmade items at the exhibition running today, Friday September 27, and tomorrow, Saturday September 28, from 9am till 4pm.

Some of the handmade and fibre art items on display at the exhibition.

Margie Adams, founder and chairperson of Seaside Quilters, said the exhibition gave group members the opportunity to display their work while supporting the local quilting community.

“It is really just to create and generate interest and inspiration for my group,” she said.

Seaside Quilters founder and chairperson Margie Adams with some of the batik materials she recently sourced in Bali.

Founded in 2012, the group has grown significantly over the years, meeting once a month at the Dutch Reformed Church, where quilting specialists are invited to share their knowledge and expertise.

"We have people who do incredible work, and they are very proud of their work. They love to share their creations,“ she said, adding that the club was looking for new members.

“We have fantastic teachers nearby who can teach you to quilt, so anyone who wants to join can contact me.”

A close-up of one of Glenys Dougall’s quilts. She explains in the video below how it was made.

Glenys Dougall, a member who recently won two awards at a national quilt show in July for her hand-appliquéd and hand-quilted creation, Kelmscott, which took two years to complete, had six quilts on display at the exhibition.

She said while the group often has “show and tell” sessions at their monthly meetings, this exhibition is far grander.

Another member, Irene Blignaut, has four quilts on display but also makes pencil cases and make-up bags. “It keeps you busy, and you get to handle the most beautiful fabric,” she said.

Seaside Quilters member Irene Blignaut with some of the items she made for the exhibition.

For the past five years, Ms Adams has organised a 10-day trip to Bali for a small group of quilters, where they can experience the cultural richness of Bali, including Batik and Indigo dyeing, woodcarving, and shopping.

“The exhibition is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in quilting or handmade crafts,” she said.

For more information about Seaside Quilters or to join the group, email Ms Adams at margie.adams@mweb.co.za