(Chelsea Update would like to thank Lori Coryell for the information in this story.)
We see them in our kitchens, at grocery store deli counters, in restaurants, and at hardware stores.
Aprons are ubiquitous in our lives.
Apron Strings: Ties to the Past—opening on Sept. 4 at the Chelsea District Library (CDL)—presents a fascinating evaluation of the apron as an emotionally charged vehicle for expression with a rich and varied craft history that is still evident today.
The aprons in the exhibition date from the 1900s through present day and include examples by several contemporary artists. They chronicle changing attitudes toward women and domestic work, illustrate a wide range of design and craft techniques that display artistic flair, and provide insight into the lives of those who wore them.
Apron Strings is organized into several thematic groups addressing design, historical context, use, decorations, and materials. This engaging and thoughtful exhibition is sure to conjure up memories of aprons, family, and community.
The library will present programs during the run of the exhibition including Kids Banana Bread Baking Workshop, a Downton Abbey Party, Desserts by the Decade: the 1950s, and Apron Strings: Fashion and Function Throughout History.
In addition, be sure to look for fun exhibit-related activities throughout the library and check out local apron-themed collections from Jiffy Mix, the Waterloo Farm Museum, and other community members on display at CDL.
Interested in booking a private guided tour geared toward kids? Contact Lori Coryell at [email protected].
Sept. 4–Oct. 20
Exhibition Hours:
Monday 5–8:30 p.m.
Wednesday–Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturdays* and Sundays 1–4:30 p.m.
* Limited hours available Sep. 14. Call for details.
The exhibition is toured by ExhibitsUSA, a national program of Mid-America Arts Alliance. ExhibitsUSA sends more than 25 exhibitions on tour to more than 100 small and mid-sized communities every year. More information is available at www.maaa.org and www.eusa.org.
