Knit up a storm at Reading store's open days
Richard Cutcher • Published 12 Aug 2011 12:00
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PASSIONS for history and knitting will be combined to fascinating effect when department store Jacksons and local artists team up for Heritage Open Days.
Jacksons marked their 135th anniversary last year with the help of Reading-based arts organisation Jelly by knitting a giant birthday cake, and the unlikely double act will unite once more to produce knitwear inspired by the Jacksons' archives.
From Thursday, September 8, to Saturday, September 10, the famous department store will also be holding free knitting masterclasses taught by the Jelly knitwear team, The Outcasts.
Suzanne Stallard, director at Jelly, said: "It is a fabulous project celebrating Reading's history and at the same time emerging creative talent. What interests me about the project is working again in Jacksons. We enjoyed it so much last year, there was a lovely atmosphere created and we hope to create something special this time around too."
During the exhibition local designer, Emma Bradbury, will be revealing an extra special piece knitted using yarn available at Jacksons and inspired by the archives which were brought together in the book, 'Jacksons - The Story of Reading's Oldest Department Store', by employee and Reading history enthusiast Tom Macey, in 2009.
Ms Bradbury, 31, has designed clothes for high street brand DAKS 2011 Autumn and Winter collection but is extremely proud to be taking inspiration from a store she has known all her life.
Ms Bradbury, who went to Highdown School and still lives in Reading, said: "I remember getting my school uniform from there and when I saw the book by Tom I had some great ideas. My passion is 1920s fashion so I have been able to combine that with the archives to come up with a machine-knitted Fair Isle pattern. I just hope people like it!"
Mr Macey, 24, said: "I was fascinated by Jacksons from a young age and because I went to Maiden Erlegh I used to get my uniform there. I have worked here for seven years now and I had great fun putting the book together. I can't wait to see what Emma has come up with in knit form."
As part of the exhibition Ms Bradbury will discuss her inspiration, show off her design work and talk through her final piece, and Mr Macey will give a talk about his book.
Jacksons' Heritage Open Days exhibitions, talks and workshops will take place on Thursday, September 8, from 11am-4pm, Friday, September 9, from 11am-2pm and Saturday, September 10, from 11am-3pm.
Art and history enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to attend, to take advantage of workshops and expertise to suit all ages and abilities.
This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 11 Aug 11
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