We’ve had a busy summer so far with new staff, new exhibits, some exciting community collaborations, and a whole lot of curious visitors!
In conjunction with the upcoming 2010 Fibre Arts Festival (August 19th-21st), we collaborated with Alaina Russell of Carola’s Quilt Shop to create our new temporary exhibit. Alaina loaned us a portion of her collection and we now have a FABULOUS display of 26 toy sewing machines, in mint condition, dating from 1910 up to the 1970’s, along with some beautiful featherweights, treadle and hand-operated machines. The oldest machine on display was manufactured in 1886 - 124 years later and it still works. 
The opening reception for "...Sew Like Your Mother" will be this Saturday, August 14th, from 2:00 to 4:00pm. Join us for some lemonade and a lively chat with the collector!
Yesterday we had the Summer Reading Club come from the Gibsons Public Library for a scavenger hunt. The kids, ages 4 to 10, wandered through the museum in search of certain artifacts, historical names, and other hidden treasures. It also happened to be Super Hero Dress-Up Day so our Summer Assistant, Devon, dressed as Super Girl and had fun helping the kids find clues, spell words, and learn about the museum in the process.
Before flying off to save the day, she took some time to pose with some of the staff and sign autographs – thanks Super Girl!!
Earlier this month, Sherry Cooper dropped off a painting, “Orchard Ghosts”, to hang in our Gift Shop for the duration of the Coastal Lives Exhibit at the Gibsons Public Art Gallery. The theme of her show is pioneer life, circa 1886, with a focus on the Hjorthoy family of Gambier Island and their apple orchard. Next time you’re in G-town, drop by GPAG and check out the show, then walk on over to the museum for the finale piece, “Orchard Ghosts”.
Look for our booth at the upcoming Salmon and Ocean’s Day on September 11th and at the New Moon Festival on September 24th. We will have some interesting and informative on-site displays at both events.
Also, coming up on October 2nd, we will be having our Community Oral History Workshop. This will be a one-day workshop that will take place at Christenson Village in their Activity Room. I will post more info as we get organized but the date is confirmed so check back soon!
