Before South East Asia and long before taking Scandinavia by storm, Alastair enjoyed a long term relationship with the UK Crafts market. A passionate supporter of the artistry in crafts, Mr. McMinn developed Coats long standing relationship with art of the STITCH and the Embroiderers Guild.
We hook up with Alastair after the Festival of Quilts to find out what is in the pipeline for the K&S show...
Hi Alastair, so what exactly is art of the STITCH?
It's a treat for anyone who craves colour, design, stitching prowess and vision. art of the STITCH is an International Open Exhibition for Stitch or art associated with Stitch. It showcases International contemporary art and highlights the innovation and creativity within this traditional art form. art of the STITCH is now THE International textile art exhibition with entries from all over the world. The number of entries has grown with every event as the competition-exhibition has grown in stature and awareness as a top textile event.
art of the STITCH has been a biennial exhibition and has been supported by Coats Crafts since its conception in 1995, when I was involved in the development of the art of the STITCH concept in conjunction with the Embroiderers' Guild. If you haven't see it yet, it's a must for your list at the upcoming show in Alexandra Palace.
This event has already been hosted in Birmingham, Krefeld in Germany, Budapest and now the Knitting & Stitching Shows in Alexandra Palace and Harrogate.
Why do you think it's so popular?
I think fundamentally it offers stimulation and innovation. The technical ability is second to none and so the works can inspire anyone or everyone who has a love from embroidery - the creativity is mind blowing and shows embroidery in a life form which is light years away from Crinoline Ladies and tableware.
Modern embroidery is undoubtedly an art form and that is celebrated here. For some it is provocative - I've heard some pretty derogative comments passed whilst in earshot - what idiot selected this as the Anchor award - as the Anchor judge, silence was judged to be the most effective solution! Any worries were quickly replaced by the next visitor who sung my praises for the choice of the winner. Stimulating and certainly provocative and inspiring for all - and a good thing in my opinion!
Where can I find it?
The Embroiderers' Guild will be sharing the welcome desk with Coats Crafts - guided tours are available to school parties who have booked - and teachers will receive welcome packs from Coats Crafts UK. art of the STITCH catalogues will also be on sale through the Embroiderers' Guild, who are presenting art of the STITCH at Alexandra Palace and Harrogate.
The K&SS will also see the start of A Closer Look - an educational programme derived from art of the STITCH - and sponsored by Coats Crafts. An opportunity for schools to share the ideas and creative experiences of some of the artists who are participating in art of the STITCH - through a series of lectures and workshops for schools. Perhaps the first steps for an Anchor Award winner at art of the STITCH in the future!
What is your top tip for visitors to the show?
Enjoy the creativity and admire the innovation shown in the exhibits - the final selection from a record number of entries from 37 countries. Become an amateur critic if you want - and take the opportunity to visit the Graduate Showcase and other exhibitions at the Knitting and Stitch Show - plus the Coats stand of course!