Unlikely Hero Inspires Craft Exhibition

Mary E. Black is best known for her leadership in the revival of the craft tradition in Nova Scotia. An exhibition inspired by her work is on display at the Nova Scotia Centre for Craft and Design in Halifax.

The exhibition, titled Out of the Ordinary: A Tribute to Mary E. Black, contains contemporary works created by artists across the province. The artists were inspired by Ms. Black's leadership and creativity. The exhibition runs until Nov. 20.

Ms. Black's book, Key to Weaving, brought her the recognition of weavers worldwide. The exhibt provides a slice of colour, flavour and life to the legacy of Ms. Black.

Dawn MacNutt, curator of the show, describes Ms. Black as an unlikely hero.

"She was a quiet unassuming lady with an intelligence, curiosity, wiry determination and organizational ability which remained sharp to the end," said Ms. McNutt.

Ms. McNutt regards the exhibit as a glance at Ms. Black's effect on work coming out of Nova Scotia, a microcosm of the world she influenced.

For those whose appetites have only been whetted by the exhibition, there will be a talk and slide presentation called Mary E Black: A Founding Vision of Crafts in Nova Scotia, today at 7 p.m. in the board room of the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. Wendy Landry, master of fine arts and history lecturer, will be the guest speaker. This programme is sponsored by the college and the Atlantic Spinners and Handweavers.

The gallery is located in the Nova Scotia Centre for Craft and Design at 1683 Barrington St., Halifax. Admission to the gallery is by donation. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.