Exhibition Description:

This exhibition features recent works by the Brant Needle Arts Guild (BNAG). Its fascinating history can be traced back to 1976, when a small gathering of local embroiderers decided to formally name themselves the Brant Broderers. They took inspiration from The Worshipful Company of Broderers, a United Kingdom-based collective originally formed to protect and advocate for the trade and practice of embroidery in the City of London during the 13th century. In 2019, the organization adopted the name Brant Needle Arts Guild as a way to modernize and better reflect the range of works produced by its growing membership.

The BNAG seeks to learn embroidery techniques and skills practiced both in Canada and internationally. Members have travelled to various countries, including England, France, Italy, Ireland, and Scotland, as well as the United States, to meet with and learn from needle arts educators and collectives. The Guild has also arranged for these teachers to visit Canada to deliver classes and workshops on both traditional and contemporary embroidery methods. Today, its members continue to share, promote, and educate others about the art of embroidery within the City of Brantford, Brant County, and Six Nations of the Grand River. The BNAG is also a proud member of the Ontario Network of Needleworkers.

Since the 1970s, its members have been involved in Glenhyrst Art Gallery’s programming and administration, volunteering their time at events and participating in numerous exhibitions. A staple of the arts community for fifty years, the Guild's members have made significant contributions to the cultural life of our region. This exhibition presents an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements.