Weaving And Whittling Wonders

WESTON — A unique exhibition is being featured at Weston Library through July 5. A collection of 51 original weavings by longtime Westonites Frank and the late Julia Conway will be on display – weavings of various sizes, including placemats and runners, a baby blanket, curtains, bedspreads, and tapestries.

From the first traditional pattern to variations on themes to original designs, viewers will see a progression to more ambitious projects and symbolic and innovative designs. The exhibit is arranged to show how one type of design is developed and expanded – be it a type of weaving or a specific pattern, such as leaf patterns, geometric shapes, variations on sunrises, or concentric circles.

Frank and Julie Conway taught themselves how to weave. Then they collected plants and experimented with natural dyes to color their wool. A display they created shows the different colors certain plants impart to wool and other yarns.

The Conways loved to share their knowledge, talents, and enthusiasm, as well as their crafts. Many people in Fairfield County and beyond have been fortunate enough to receive a special present from them to honor an event or a friendship. A good number of those people have loaned their prized items back to Mr Conway for this exhibit. Some pieces have come from as far away as Minnesota.

On Sunday, June 29, from 4 to 6 pm, there will be a reception for the public to meet Mr Conway and to view a special display of amazingly delicate woodcarvings created by the artist. The carving collection includes small medallions, boxes, Christmas tree ornaments, zodiac plaques, a set of coasters, a trivet, tray, and walking stick, as well as two sculptures. Most of the items have Japanese, Chinese, Celtic, or Arabic motifs – the oriental designs reflecting the Conways’ stay in the Orient. Because these carvings are so delicate and fragile, they will only be on display during the June 29 reception. The weavings, however, will be on display for the full run of the exhibition.

Weston Library is at 56 Norfield Road, next to Weston Town Hall. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; Wednesday hours are 9 am to 8 pm; and Saturday hours are 10 am to 4 pm.

The library is closed on summer Sundays, but will be open for this special exhibit and reception on Sunday, June 29. For further directions or details call the library at 203-222-2665.