Tapestry and Weaving Workshop

In Search of Hope – by Sam Gannon

Seconded to the parish of Tililngdon, the Reverend Dolores has been presented with a challenge.

She’s living in an antiquated house and she’s cold. Furthermore, her new Bishop, Bishop Alice does not approve of ‘showgirls in dog collars.’

Determined to prove the Bishop wrong, she sets about warming her house – who cares if it smells of horse! There is the crochet club, jumble sale, and soup run to organise. And this year, the church bells will ring, no matter what threats are made. Even more so, the newly formed choir will spread a little joy this Christmas, even though they can’t sing – yet! And with a little help from Phil, her bassist, this year could be full of magic.

However, she has a fight on her hands as the townies out in Knob Hill – she must stop calling it that, are trying to stop her from ringing her bells. When Krystal with a K decides to do some volunteer work, Dolores sets out to see just how committed she really is.

Up to her ears in granny squares and squawking choristers, Dolores is revving up for Christmas, yet a deeper darker secret is beginning to emerge!

A secret that could blow the whole parish apart and put Dolores in danger.

(available from Amazon)

From the 27th to the 31st of October, the Institute of Wine, Embroidery and Handicrafts of Madeira (IVBAM) is hosting its second ‘Weaving and Tapestry Week.’ An initiative that aims to value and disseminate the traditional arts and crafts of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.

The course aims to celebrate and promote the techniques of weaving and tapestry, simultaneously highlighting the connection between traditional knowledge and contemporary approaches that reflect the evolution and modernisation of regional handicrafts.

Throughout the week, various attractions will be on display, including a permanent exhibition of Weaving and Tapestry pieces. This event will feature contributions from Bordal, artisan Jenita Spínola, and renowned artisans Susana Vares and Luísa Araújo, representing the Maui Project and Sucri. The exhibition will also showcase pieces from the IVBAM collection.

Two practical Tapestry Workshops will be held on the 27th and 28th of October, by Rita Santaniello.

For those interested, please register your interest through the following email: rcbarros.barros@gmail.com (Rita Santaniello).

The activities will take place on the premises of the Institute, located at Rua dos Ferreiros, nº 152, Funchal.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to join in and experience the craftsmanship of Madeiran artisans up close, helping to preserve and celebrate Madeira’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com

Photo: JM Archive

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