Embroidery and craftwork exhibition
View(s):By Shehani Alwis
Astrid Fernando is known for the beautiful works of embroidery and crafts which she creates. Her simple and easy- to- understand demonstrations on TV have made her popular amongst viewers. Over the past nine years she has trained more than 3000 students, teaching them in almost 55 different methods of embroidery.
Her next exhibition which showcases the work of her students will be held on May 4 and 5, at the J. R. Jayewardene Cultural Centre on Dharamapala Mawatha, Colombo 7 from 9.30 a.m. till 7 p.m. each day. This is her 7th exhibition and will be opened by chief guest actress Sangeetha Weerarathne. Some 120 of her students will exhibit their work which includes many types of embroidery and craftwork.
Ms. Fernando says that in the past four years she has introduced new forms of embroidery to Sri Lanka. This year she has introduced a lace technique named “Ruskin Lace” which is done by hand. She constantly updates herself about the new techniques and trends associated with embroidery, often perusing books and guides which she gets down from abroad.
Nothing gives her more pleasure than to see her students following in her path and putting forward beautiful creations. “I have tried to give my students the opportunity to showcase the skills they have acquired through disciplined learning. Most of my students are self-employed. Some of my students conduct classes on their own now,” she says with pride.
She shares her knowledge freely with her pupils and also with the viewers who contact her after watching her programmes and is happy to assist anyone seeking to learn this intricate craft. The exhibition will be followed by an award ceremony. Embroidery work made by Ms. Fernando too will be on sale at the exhibition. Entrance for the event will be Rs. 150.
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