Thanks to the Welsh Basket Makers South Wales group for sending me as their representative to The Epic Awards in Derry. All travel arrangements were taken care of by my traveling companion from Voluntary Arts Dan Carpenter, so all I had to do was turn up. A flight and a coach journey followed.
We were meeted and greeted by the Voluntary Arts team, fed and watered then off to the Verbal Arts Centre. I have to say I really had no idea what to expect, only that I would have to give a short explanation about our Project – The Exhibition in the National Botanic Garden for the Basketmakers Association Summer meeting
Firstly I am introduced to Irene who won the English Award for Quilts 4 London, Sarah from Scotland and her Barra Bunting Project and the Irish winner Feargal who with others have reinstated the St.Patrick’s Day Festival in Fermanagh. The room began to fill up with dignitaries, the mayor of Derry, The Minister, local MP and many other enthusiastic and interested parties. I felt very humbled that our passion for weaving willow was receiving so much appreciation and recognition.
The prize giving followed and I waved a willow wand and enthusiastically spoke about our groups display and all the things we have done since we started. Robin who is part of Voluntary arts amusingly remarked he liked the fact that the eating of cake seemed important to all the winning entries.
So the evening continued I met lots of interesting folk. Eventually the Voluntary Arts crew dragged me off to a bar to share their evening of music and alcohol. As I did not wish to offend fellow celts I joined in the fun. The down side was I had to be on the coach at 7.00am the next morning for the 2hr ride back to Belfast to fly home.
A short visit but very enjoyable, and I certainly would like to go back to Derry as it is the Capital of Culture this year.
Liz Stone
You can see Liz being interviewed about her experience here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lPZNvqjRX4&feature=player_embedded