The artistry, creativity and personal stories behind modern embroidery are on display this month in the Tauranga Embroiderers’ Guild’s Flights of Fancy exhibition at Tolo – the Old Library Ōmokoroa.

Far from the traditional image of perfectly judged needlework, the free exhibition celebrates stitching as art, storytelling and mindfulness.

Running until August 30, it features about 50 bird-inspired works showcasing the diversity of contemporary embroidery, from traditional techniques to deeply personal creative expression.

Exhibition co-ordinator Rose Webber said the display was designed to showcase pieces that might not normally be seen in formal exhibitions.

Diverse range

“The idea was to give members of the guild a chance to display work that may not have been suitable for exhibitions,” Webber said. “It’s a chance to show the diverse range of stitching that’s done nowadays.”

Rather than focusing on technical perfection or competition, the exhibition highlights the many reasons people stitch.

A range of needlework which is on display in the Flights of Fancy - Avian Inspired Stitching exhibition at The Old Library Ōmokoroa. Photos / Kelly O’Hara

“People do stitching for all sorts of reasons,” she said. “It’s a meditative process, or they want to tell a personal story.”

The collection spans generations and experience levels. Among the exhibits is a piece completed by one guild member when she was 11 years old – now proudly displayed six decades later at the age of 71. Other works included unfinished projects that have been lovingly completed, alongside contemporary textile art inspired by birds.

Founded in 1982, the Tauranga Embroiderers’ Guild has about 70 members and is affiliated with the Association of New Zealand Embroiderers’ Guilds.

First for years

While the guild has held exhibitions in the past, Webber said this is its first display for several years.

“Putting an exhibition together is a lot of work,” she said. “This display doesn’t have any judging or competitive element to it, but even then, it’s quite an undertaking to co-ordinate.”

The exhibition also marked a new direction for the guild. Rather than hiring a venue for a few days, members were invited by Tolo to create a month-long display in a relaxed community setting.

“We went out and had a look at the venue, liked it, and thought we could do something a bit different,” Webber said.

With several guild members living in Ōmokoroa, the exhibition also provided an opportunity to connect with residents and newcomers who might be interested in taking up embroidery.

Workshops

Alongside the exhibition, visitors can participate in introductory stitching workshops every Wednesday and Sunday morning throughout August.

Participants could choose to create a felt bird, stitch a bird-themed bookmark, make a scissor holder or keep, or embellish a felt needlebook. The workshops cost $10, with all materials supplied, although bookings are essential.

Guild members will also be at the gallery every Thursday, Friday and Saturday for informal stitching sessions, where visitors are welcome to stop by, ask questions, watch demonstrations or even bring along their own stitching projects for a chat and a stitch together.

Although the exhibition pieces are not for sale, visitors can browse a well-stocked sales table featuring handmade items created by guild members.

Flights of Fancy - Avian Inspired Stitching is on at Tolo – the Old Library Ōmokoroa – until August 30. The gallery is open Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am-4pm. Entry is free.

The Tauranga Embroiderers’ Guild meets on Tuesdays at 10am at Tauranga South Bowling Club, 15 Tutchen St (off 11th Ave), Tauranga; and a Wednesday evening group meets 7pm-9pm. For further details, email: taurangaembroiderersguild@gmail.com.