Ferrybank Women's Shed exhibits crafty Waterford skills

People gathered at Ferrybank Library last week in support of the most recent exhibition carried out by the Ferrybank Women's Shed, which highlighted the skills and talent of the women in our midst. 

The ladies involved in the Ferrybank Women's Shed had been working on their embroidery skills most recently, however, it was much more than following a pattern. 

This project, which is supported by the Roses from the Heart Waterford group and funded by the WWETB, was linked with the history of some 350 Waterford women who were convicted of petty crimes between the years of 1778 and 1853. 

The women's colourful crafty work was on display, some of whom had many years of experience in embroidering, and others had begun to learn at the commencement of the project. However, it was difficult to distinguish who the newcomers were as the bonnets were absolutely beautiful. 

The time and detail that went into the bonnets signified a lovely memorial to the Roses from the Heart Tribute - to which the exhibition was linked. 

The Roses from the Heart Tribute was originally founded by Tasmanian artist Dr. Christina Henri. 

Overall, the exhibition is a unique memorial to more than 25,500 women who were forced to travel because of their social class and poverty. 

Speaking about the exhibition to the Waterford News & Star, facilitator of the Bonnet Project, Anne Quinlan said: "I think it's very special, because these women, they're forgotten in history, so this is a way of really remembering them."

"It's a memorial for them, in a sense. And I just think it's a very special statement, you know, for the women," explained Ms Quinlan. 

"We don't learn about this in school, and it should be part of our history in school. 

"But by having this exhibition now, as small as it is, we hope to expand and create awareness for these women who aren't in our history books," she added. 

Ms Quinlan then spoke of the impact of the project on the members of the group. 

She described the social side of the project as "just beautiful". 

"The personal development is very important, and this project links in massively and resonated with our members because we want to try and fight isolation, and that's what a lot of women are coming from," said Ms Quinlan. 

"When they come here, to the Women's Shed, they're making friends, I mean, lifelong friends, and they'll attest to that. 

"We're such a close little bunch, it's like a family in a sense, because we've laughed together, we've cried together, we've been shocked by history together and we've learned so much," she continued.

"Some people might come in with different skills and it's just been a whirlwind of knowledge and fun," said Ms Quinlan. 

With the success of the project in creating awareness and the positive aspect of personal development, Ms Quinlan said the women involved are looking forward to taking part again next year, "and we hope that we'll get other people to come as well," she said. 

Ms Quinlan concluded by thanking everyone who dedicated their time to the project.