BANNERS OF HOPE IN ESPANOLA: THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH and - TopicsExpress

BANNERS OF HOPE IN ESPANOLA: THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH and October 9th the Espanola Fibre Arts Festival will host “Construction Zone” activities at the Lighthouse Church, 100 Tudhope Street in Espanola to create Banners for their cause. Generous donations of supplies have been provided by the Craft & Hobby Association and local crafters. Experienced sewer, Elly Charette will be on hand to guide and advise attendees on construction techniques, beginner and experienced sewers are welcome. In an age where the latest technology and innovations can touch millions of lives, those who know how to sew from the Espanola community are using creativity to uplift people. Banners of Hope (BOH) are small fabric-based banners with inspirational messages that are displayed in hospitals, shelters and charity locations that greet members of the public in times of challenge. Often displayed in waiting areas, the unique banners inspire, amuse and offer simple words of encouragement for those waiting for treatment or appointments. The Banners of Hope project was conceived by the Fabric Arts Council, a section within the Craft and Hobby Association. Lorine Mason, of Lorine Mason Designs, co chair of the Council states that “there are two goals for the BOH project, first to encourage the public to develop or expand their sewing skills on a simple often quick project and second and most importantly, to connect the sewing industry with the public in a meaningful way. You never know the impact of a positive phrase or an up lifting comment on someone in a very delicate state of mind or health.” The art of sewing is also a stress relief and offers a tactile feeling of accomplishment that often in itself can be therapeutic. Recent studies from NYU and Harvard University show that sewing can help to reduce stress, build self-esteem and increase physical dexterity. These studies have shown that crafting activities such as sewing can actually improve concentration, while enhancing health and mental wellness. The Espanola Fibre Arts Festival has chosen the Espanola Regional Hospital & Health Centre as the beneficiary of their Banner of Hope project. Finished Banners will be on display at the Third Annual Espanola Fibre Arts Festival in October and subsequently donated to the hospital. Those who wish to make banners at home and donate them to the cause can drop off completed banners to Jody Pilon at 109 Sheppard Street in Espanola. Please visit craftandhobby.org for standardized size and specific details on banner creation or contact the Espanola Fibre Arts Festival coordinator at 705 583 2326 or [email protected].