NORWICH GORE MOHAIR OPEN HOUSE

My sister's dream has always been to own a studio where she could do what she does best - create wonderful pieces of art. She may not call it art but anyone who can take a piece of barnboard and turn it into a country scene that you could step right into - is art. Or raise mohair goats and take the process right to the end result of a warm sweater or mitts or socks.

This studio is bright and airy - just full of ideas waiting to burst out. There is a spinning wheel on one wall, a painting table in the centre of the room and her own personal collection of antique looms, all ready for the next project. Robin also cleans and dyes the mohair into a rainbow of wonderful colours for others to use their skills to create the end product of their choice.

Each year on the last weekend of November she opens her studio to the public for the Annual Open House. Neighbouring artisans are invited to set up in the studio and demonstrate their individual talents and show their crafts and offer them for sale.

As I look around the studio I see a wonderful selection of different handmade treasures such as saw blades recycled into painted masterpieces. The countryside scenes transport you magically to a quieter time in history when life seemed simpler. The artist, Rachel Z. has recently returned from her teaching job in Japan and will spend the day demonstrating her painting talents. Robin is very grateful for the time Rachel is spending today at the open house.

Mary is a returning artisan from last year and has many colourful examples of her crocheting and sewing talents displayed around the studio. She worked many years ago as a sewing teacher for Singer. She fashions baby afghans and quilt coverlets as well as warm hats and lap covers. Also, Mary creates braid rugs from recycled clothing. Imagine this, discarded clothing headed for the landfill now transformed into something new, colourful and very warm and useful. Mary gives old clothing a brand new life. What a wonderful concept.

Now the visitors start to arrive. The first ones are from Kitchener, Ontario and they are given the "grand tour" expecially looking at the pride of the loom collection "The Barn Loom" that I think I heard was from the 1830's. There are many humourous stories to be told about the barn loom - too many to mention here.

Throughout the day everyone marvels at the vast array of talent shown through the studio. There is even a surprise visit from a photographer from the local newspaper. Christmas music is playing in the background but the lovely fall weather outside shows a contrast. Not to worry though the snow flurries will arrive soon enough.

Robin can be contacted at mohair@sympatico.ca Merry Christmas everyone!!!!!

Shari Weaver (proud sister of Robin)