Lace Exhibition at Gunnersbury Park

Local Museum matches the V&A with stunning displays

Many people assume that the V&A is the only place to see impressive costume collections. But enthusiasts can now visit a stunning lace and costume exhibition on show at Gunnersbury Park Museum.

The costumes � all with lace accessories � include a formal cream watered silk dress from the 1760s, with frills and furbelows. One of the most dramatic costumes is a 1920s� machined black lace jacket and dress, which could be worn as a modern party outfit. Other exhibits feature a child�s party dress of silk chiffon and a beautiful mid-1870s� dress with train, frills, lace and ribbons.

Examples of lace handiwork through the ages includes Irish laces, 16th and 17th Century lace, 18th Century bobbin laces, 17th to 20th Century Needle lace, birds and beasts and modern lace. There is even a section on how lace making is done.

The exhibition, organised in conjunction with the Lace Guild, runs from March 2nd to September 26th and will feature a selection of events from a Basic lace workshop (June 13th, 1-5pm) to a Childrens� workshop (August 21st and 22nd, 1-5pm).

The first event is an evening talk on modern lacemaking (18th May, 6-9pm). Throughout the exhibition there will be weekend demonstrations of lace making.

To book on to an event, contact The Lace Guild on 01384 390739, or e-mail: hollies@laceguild.org.

March 2, 2004