Handcrafted lap rugs by community knitters and crocheters go on display at the iconic Malachi Gilmore Hall
A donation of two bales of sheep’s fleece from a local farm sparked a community project at the Malachi honouring its history as a wool store and craft shop. Local fibre artists began combing, spinning, knitting, and crocheting lap rugs for the audience to use while at the Hall.
The Malachi Lap Rug Project Exhibition showcases a collection of lovingly handmade lap rugs created by local spinners, knitters and crocheters. The Malachi Lap Rug Project, a three-year community initiative led by Lynne Webb and Lexi Kellam, brought together people of all skill levels to craft cosy rugs for the historic hall. Headed up by the Oberon U3A Creative Fibre Group and involving over fifty community members, the exhibition showcases a collection of lovingly handmade lap rugs made from natural, undyed Oberon wool and the process by which they were made.
On the label of each rug, there are four words: Crafting, Community, Companionship, and Creativity – all hallmarks of this project. For three years, the group has met fortnightly, working together at the Malachi and at the Oberon Community Centre.
“This project is exactly what the Malachi is about,” said Lucy East. “It’s about people coming together, making something beautiful, and leaving their mark on this place.”
The Malachi Lap Rug Project Exhibition is held at the Malachi Gilmore Hall, Oberon, NSW, running Saturday 18 April from 10 am to Sunday 19 April at 4 pm.
Entry is free. All are welcome.
For more information:
Lucy East: 0401 262 260
info@malachigilmorehall.com.au
www.malachigilmorehall.com.au
Follow The Malachi on Instagram and Facebook: @malachigilmorehall
