#277 Spring 2021

As I write, at the beginning of 2021, we look forward with hope for better times. During the difficulties of 2020 the JEC members – all of whom are volunteers – have worked very hard to continue to produce the Journal to its usual high standard and do all the necessary admin, including managing advertising, subscriptions and sales (our vital income), keeping the website and social media regularly updated, plus all the other essential administrative jobs. Our members and volunteers all bring a range of skills and experience which enhance the Journal.
Do think about volunteering to join the committee, if not this year, perhaps in the future. It is quite demanding, but very rewarding. Information about nominations for the two Association committees has been sent to Guilds, and is available on the Association website.

In this issue the students on Jenny Dean’s year-long natural dye course at Ditchling Museum report on their experiences, many of them finding it transformational. We have an in-depth look at Gotland sheep – characterful animals with fleece to match. Sandra King introduces a range of traditional Irish sheep breeds and tells us about her involvement in raising the profile of handspinning and weaving in Ireland. Across the world, Sandra De Berduccy’s holistic approach draws on the natural and cultural environment of the Andes in her innovative textiles. New graduate, Marcia B John, tells us what inspired her to weave and presents the work she showed at New Designers and the Surface Design Show. We have reviews of a couple of online exhibitions which help to widen our perspective while actual gallery visits have been impossible. Guild Highlights and Readers’ Showcase focus on what Guild members have achieved in lockdown and we also have reviews of a number of inspiring books. The value of having good textile books to hand has definitely been proven in the last year.

Hilary Miller, Chair, Journal Editorial Committee