More ‘Newtown Reads’ Programming—

Historical Society’s Curtiss House Will Be Open On Sunday

Whether you have read and/or participated in any of the current Newtown Reads programs – a special curriculum of events for Newtowners of all ages to read Howard Fast’s April Morning and participate in any number of book discussions, performances, and even a battle re-enactment – Newtown Historical Society invites anyone interested in history to visit its headquarters on Sunday, April 13.

The Matthew Curtiss House will be open from 1 to 4 pm, and two guests – Liz Alpert Fay and Craig Farrow – will be demonstrating their traditional crafts during that time. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Liz Alpert Fay makes hand hooked rugs in the traditional manner: the Sandy Hook resident cuts narrow strips of fabric and then hooks them into a linen backing. She primarily uses wool, but sometimes incorporates cotton and/or a variety of specialty yarns and fabrics into her work.

“I like the idea of incorporating discarded clothing and other textiles which already have a history of their own,” she says. “I work with new as well as recycled wools and hand dye many of the colors I use.”

Her designs are all original, and each rug is unique. Some, says the artist, are purely explorations in color while others tell stories, “reflect my views on life, or enable me to comment on issues that are important to me,” she notes in a recent artist’s statement.

“I have taught young children for many years and I am always inspired by their fresh, direct approach,” her statement continues. “In many of my rugs I strive to create that same sense of spontaneity.”

Mrs Fay says she views her rug making as “creating art which can be used on the floor as well as hung on the wall.” Her work is rich looking, and feels warm and wonderful underfoot.

“I feel the pieces become more beautiful with time and use,” she says.

Craig Farrow, who lives in Woodbury, builds reproduction 17th and 18th Century American furniture. He will be giving a demonstration of his work during Sunday’s open house and will have a number of his pieces on display.

Although Mr Farrow uses new hard wood of all types, he creates his reproductions in the old ways, from scratch. He even uses old tools, including moldings that were made during the 18th Century.

His work has been used by homeowners reconstructing a historic home – such as the former advertising director Frank Attardi and his wife, the actress Linda Dano, who commissioned Mr Farrow to reproduce a number of pieces for the 18th Century homes they purchased a number of years ago in Washington, Conn. (The couple purchased two homes and had them moved to Washington, where they were then joined into one dwelling.)

Mr Farrow’s work has also been seen in feature films. He did a reproduction slat back chair that was seen in the feature film The Crucible.

Both artists will be available for questions or discussion on Sunday. The Matthew Curtiss House is at 44 Main Street/Route 25 in Newtown.