The annual LMB Arts and Crafts Show was recently held in the LMB Atrium. The show, which has run for over 10 years, is a chance for people at the LMB to showcase their creative talents. From a minute, exquisitely crocheted figure of Vincent van Gogh, and a detailed-filled street of shops, to bright, vibrant cards, embroideries, and models of transport, to science inspired paintings and needlework, delicate jewellery and atmospheric photographs, this year’s show saw a wide range of items on display.
One of the key features this year was a display of needle-felted petri-dish designs, made to celebrate the LMB’s 60th anniversary. Jillian Deans, organiser of the LMB Craft and Chatter Group, held workshops for LMB people to try their hand at needle-felting. The designs vary from real-life organisms growing on petri dishes to colourful, fantasy designs. Jillian commented: “We had great fun making the petri dishes and it was particularly nice to see people who had never had a go at crafts before enjoying the workshops. It was also a fantastic way to meet new people.”
Also highlighted was a selection of wood-turned items from Geoff Wilkinson, Head of Domestic Services. Geoff began wood-turning three years ago, after having to give up cycling due to health issues. He added: “I was fortunate to be able to acquire a nice second-hand lathe to turn wood with hand chisels. I am self-taught, and the last time I used a lathe before this was at school in 1975.”
A first for this year’s show was digital art by Ivana Henry. Her artwork is inspired by various scientific findings that she translates into 2D or 3D visuals. Ivana’s work included, for example, ‘Embryo stitching’ a metaphorical drawing of physical forces that play a crucial role in sculpting animal tissues/organs and a 3D mode of human haemoglobin showing 4 subunits in ribbon and surface representation.
David Street, organiser of the event, commented: “This year’s show has brought together an eclectic range of work from the very talented members of the LMB. It’s always a delight to see the work of new and regular exhibitors. The Atrium was again transformed into an oasis of quiet reflection and inspiration.”
