I went to the Agricultural Hall of Fame at the Claremont Showgrounds on Saturday, the last day of the Show! On entering the gates from the Showgrounds railway station, I was a bit concerned that I’d failed to read my notes on where the WAFTA display w attracted so many visitors!
Knowing some of the WAFTA members who had been involved in responding to the Show organisers’ invitation to WAFTA to mount an exhibition, including Di Binns, I knew that it would be good. However, I was bowled over not only by Tania’s installation but also by the carefully curated Altered States pieces on WAFTA’s plinths; the display of exotic textiles from the private collection of Gail Hawes; the wearable art piece by Meagan Howe and the little shop at the back stocked with delightful small works for sale.
While I was there I constantly heard volunteer WAFTA members greeting visitors and telling them about the background to the Altered States challenge; the story behind the wearable art piece, etc. These members were on their feet all day!
Without knowing names, I can say that the impression I got from a conversation with the Agricultural Society’s Manager of the Hall of Fame was that WAFTA had produced a sustained program of demonstrations. These were, of course, in addition to the standing exhibits and changed daily. I know that several of these demonstrations were repeated due to popular demand.
I want to congratulate and thank the WAFTA members who ran that wonderful WAFTA exhibition at the Show for a whole week. You are all stars!!!!!!!
Margaret Ford
WAFTA Member since 2007
