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Stitched Up Textile Festival

The idea of a festival showcasing textile artists arose from a small group of people discussing a support festival for the Marvellous Miniatures display by the Victorian Quilters Association at the Wangaratta Exhibitions Gallery in June 1999. This small group of industrious people called upon the local community for help. Responses came from the local textile industry, art and craft groups, spinning, weaving, quilting and embroidery action groups.

With a limited budget and lots of enthusiasm an event was organised - The Stitched Up Textile Festival 1999 was created!

Wangaratta, the place to be in North East Victoria is considered a major centre within the textile industry. The historic Old Library building, the Wangaratta Exhibitions Gallery and pavilions at the Showgrounds, provided excellent exhibition space to showcase the creativity and diverse range of textile art by quilters, embroiderers, hand spinners & weavers, felters, doll makers, knitters and the list goes on. The festival is committed to the ongoing promotion of arts and craft traditions by enticing artists to pass on their skills and knowledge through featured workshops, demonstrations, discussion groups and exhibitions.

Each year the festival is promoted through local, regional and metropolitan newspapers, television and print media. The overwhelming support obtained from business, industry and community sectors is largely responsible for the festival's success. Australian Country Spinners has been a major sponsor of the festival since it began and Bruck Textiles assisted in the festivals establishment. Local retailers, newspapers, radio and television have offered their ongoing sponsorship and support. The Rural City of Wangaratta, the Department of State and Regional Development and Local and State Government Departments have encouraged and supported the Stitched Up Festival.

The festival continues to attract visitors from interstate and overseas. The success and innovative themes make each festival a unique experience. The involvement of Primary & Secondary Schools in projects with special themes, changing from year to year, has become a highlight of the festival.

Displays are located within the Central Business District and this project has become a success story within the community. Current information can be obtained on 1300 795 999, www.stitchedupfestival.com

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