The Current Threads Fibre Arts Show in Duncan will feature an exhibition, workshops and a book signing.
The show runs from June 7 to July 5 at the Cowichan Valley Arts Council galleries in the Cowichan Community Centre.
It features more than 130 works from members of the Vancouver Island Surface Design Association, with artists hailing from Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Mainland and even the Yukon.
“Guests will see the latest in techniques along with an extensive sampling of colour, materials and texture — all reflecting the boundless imagination of these talented artists,” said a press release for the show.
There will be a welcoming reception on June 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. where artists and organizers will be there to share their insights and expertise.
A workshop series “Tying the Threads” will run on site from June 13 to 17. Sessions include Japanese Dying, Drawing with the Sewing Machine, Character Development with Textile Techniques, Eco Printing and more. For more information and to register, go to gatheringthethreads.ecwid.com.
Author Karen Selk will be holding two book signings, on June 13, and at the welcoming reception on June 16.
Her book is In Search of Wild Silk: Exploring a Village Industry in the Jungles of India.
“An artist, entrepreneur and author, Karen started traveling Asia in 1986 to research the history and heritage of silk production,” said the release. “Her latest account combines stunning photos and intimate anecdotes, transporting readers into the lives of weavers, spinners and silkworm farmers who remain expert in traditional, sustainable techniques.”
Regular gallery hours at Monday to Friday 1 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday noon until 4 p.m.
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Author and Globe & Mail journalist André Picard is coming to Duncan with his new book on June 17.
Picard is a health writer, and his book is Neglected No More, about the need for improvement in the way we provide care to elders in Canada, according to a press release for the event.
He will be in conversation with author and journalist Jack Knox in an event at the Duncan Showroom from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free, but people are asked to RSVP on eventbrite.
The book is a national bestseller and is shortlisted for the Balsillie Prize for Public Policy.
“It took the coronavirus pandemic to open our eyes to the deplorable state of so many of the nation’s long-term care homes: the inhumane conditions, overworked and underpaid staff, and lack of oversight,” said a press release for the event. “In this timely new book, esteemed health reporter André Picard reveals the full extent of the crisis in eldercare, and offers an urgently needed prescription to fix a broken system.”
If you’re interested you can reserve a copy of the book through Volume One’s webstore.
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Community members are invited to attend the Honouring our Sacred Cedar fundraiser, a moving event that is truly something to sing about, which will take place at The Hub at Cowichan Station from 2 to 5 p.m. on June 17.
The Xpey’ (Cedar) Project is one of the Elders’ legacies to ensure the conditions for restoration and protection of Xpey’ exist so that this beloved specie is available for cultural use in perpetuity. The Lila community choir will bring people together through the power of song to support of the Xpey’ (cedar) Project while raising awareness about efforts to restore and protect this beloved cultural species for future generations.
Tousilum’s vision is to plant a cedar tree for every child that did not return home from residential schools.
The afternoon will feature Quw’utsun’ Elders sharing cultural stories about Xpey’ and the project as well as other musical artists such as multi-award winning Mohawk singer Logan Staats, environmentalist + folk singer Luke Wallace, award winning multi-instrumentalist Quin Etheridge-Peddin, percussionist Tom Jenson, and 11-year-old singer and songwriter Opal Hallett. A minimum donation of $25 to $45 per person is encouraged.
Get tickets through eventbrite or email: qccsociety@gmail.com. Children and Quw’utsun’ mustimuhw are free.