In a previous post here, I wondered what had happened to some of the various public artwork pieces that our Guild had created. Well I have tracked some of them down and here is what I discovered about one of them; The North Vancouver Centennial Banner.

In February 2007 an idea was spawned when our two workshop coordinators at the time, Nell Burns and Inga Newbury, met to organize a group project for our members. The guidelines were simple; it had to be be contemporary, colourful, fun, inclusive and available to all levels of stitchers. It was to include a wide variety of stitches and techniques, anything from traditional to modern.

After brainstorming, Nell and Inga created a proposal. The concept was a series of 4-inch squares that included primary colours in a simple rectangular design. To help members visualize this idea, Nell made several visits to local paint stores to gather as many colour chips as she could. The colour chips, totalling 105 pieces, were glued to a rectangular mock-up which was then presented at the February general meeting. The concept was well accepted and the decision was made to proceed.

Nell and Inga were initially worried that only half of the squares would be selected by members and that they would have to complete the remaining fifty squares. Boy they were wrong! The project created such enthusiasm that all 105 squares were distributed to the participating members.

Members were free to choose whatever stitch or technique they wished as long as they adhered to the chosen colours. … Members were to complete their squares by the April meeting.

It became apparent that those who had been unable to attend the February meeting also wanted to be included. “No problem,” said the two coordinators, and an additional 18 four-inch squares were added to the original design. On these additional squares Nell machine embroidered the names of all who contributed to this unique work.

By April members had submitted 123 finished squares, which were later joined together by Nell and Inga. The techniques used included canvas work, cross stitch, quilting, slk ribbon, and wire knitting. Embroiderers embellished the squares with buttons, glitz, beads, and charms.

This wonderful wall hanging was donated to the City of North Vancouver to commemorate its 100th anniversary and is on permanent display in the Centennial Theatre. Many have enjoyed seeing the piece and are fascinated by the needlework. The wall hanging has been included in North Vancouver’s public art inventory.