Lectures

Collecting Embroidery & Needlework | Starting a collection with Alison Cole

Wednesday 19 Feb 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

From collecting stamps as a child, Alison now collects in the narrow field of Goldwork and Stumpwork embroidery and needlework tools.

This presentation tells a personal story about establishing a collection of embroidery and needlework, provides inspiration on how to start, and guidance on taking a personal collection of these precious pieces ‘to the next level’. Presenter, Alison Cole will bring selected textile treasures from her private collection to share with the audience for inspiration.

Aison Cole has been embroidering for most of her life and specialises in teaching Goldwork and Stumpwork. She has studied overseas, toured as a featured artist and worked as artist in residence. She has judged, consulted and lectured for exhibitions and won numerous awards for her work which is renowned worldwide.

She is the author of four books (All That Glitters, The Midas Touch, The Stumpwork Masterclass and The Embroiderer’s Little Book of Hints and Tips). She been the recipient of The Embroiderers Guild (Victoria) Branch Scholarship along with the prestigious Ethel Oates Scholarship, during which she researched the history of metal thread embroidery. Over the years, Alison has won many awards and prizes for her needlework.

Alison has been a regular contributor to exhibitions and the lecture programme at The Johnston Collection.

Your ticket includes tea or Market Lane coffee served before the presentation, and time to browse our exclusive range of books, gifts, and homewares at TJC Emporium.

This event is presented on-site at The Johnston Collection. Please see your ticket for details. NOTE: Tickets for this event do not include access to our exhibition-house, Fairhall. Guided tours of the current exhibition can be booked separately.

This program is generously supported by The Sir Wilfred and C H (Roger) Brookes Charitable Trust.