Quilters set for 30th anniversary show

West Islanders are invited to explore an exquisite centuries-old tradition this weekend when the Beaconsfield Quilters’ Guild mounts its 30th anniversary exhibition in Ste. Anne de Bellevue.

Reputed for its artistry, the group is “a very active, dynamic guild, and one of the oldest in Quebec,” said publicity co-ordinator Debby Kemball, adding, ‘quite a few of our members exhibit internationally and have won awards.”

The Baie d’Urfé resident is herself in that class; her prize-winning work is included in the collection of over 100 creations which will be showcased on the Macdonald campus beginning Friday night with a vernissage and birthday cake to mark the milestone.

“This is the second year we’ve held the show in the Centennial Centre ballroom. In the past we’ve had our annual exhibit at Beaconsfield Library, but we’ve outgrown the space. Last year over 600 people attended the show.”

(The guild is holding a small-scale exposition at the library until the end of April).

Among highlights of the upcoming visual feast is the annual raffle of a quilt made together by members, with proceeds earmarked for charity.

“For the past few years we’ve been donating the funds to NOVA. We usually raise a couple of thousand dollars every year,” Kemball said.

Other components are a tea room, professional quilt appraisals, and door prizes.

The guild also issues a challenge to its artisans each year.

“The theme for 2009 is ‘think green,’” she said, adding those pieces will be included in the exhibit.

“Also, several local vendors will be participating, including Pointe Claire shops Quilt Classique and Maison de Calico.”

The guild’s 110 members meet regularly in Beaconsfield to hear guest speakers and for workshops.

“We also get together once a month to make ‘cuddle quilts’ for children that we donate to Montreal hospitals and hospices,” Kemball said.

The exhibition will be held May 1 from 7 to 10 p.m., on the 2nd from 10 a.m. to 5, and on the 3rd from 10 to 3. For information call 514-457-0797.

The Beaconsfield Quilters’ Guild will mount its 30th anniversary exhibition in Ste. Anne de Bellevue this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.