Testimonials

Some comments from previous attendees at our talks:-

Loved my tour with Ann. She has developed an exceptional tour to share her knowledge and enthusiasm for this part of textile history. She started in the British Galleries at the V and A, showing the earliest examples of English lace in portraits and in objects. After that we looked at the European galleries. I was able to get a real feel for the types of lace in the galleries, but this new knowledge was made concrete when we repaired to a restaurant for tea. There, Ann whipped open her magic bag and pulled out samples of lace from her collection. After looking in the museum at pieces behind protective glass, it was a thrill to touch the real thing. All in all, a very worthwhile afternoon which I would highly recommend to lovers of textiles, costume history, or antiques.

Julia. U.S.A.

I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at the V&A. Ann is extremely knowledgeable about her subject, putting it into time and place without giving a dry history lesson as she relates it in an easygoing, humorous manner. There is much to see all within the wonderful setting of the museum. After the tour, tea was supplied in a nearby hotel where Ann opened her Mary Poppins bag to show and discuss part of her personal collection of lace. Fabulous stuff, all of it! Thank you Ann for a memorable afternoon which I would recommend to anyone whether a lace collector or not!

Dona. Australia

Ann's knowledge, reference materials and samples are exceptional. She is a wonderful 'teacher', keeps a good pace, and adapts her presentation to the interests of her participants. Plus, she provides a soothing cup of tea during the hands-on portion of her talk. I appreciate all the time and care she puts into sharing her special interest in lace and its fascinating history. I will never forget the feel of the exquisite, nearly 300 year old, ultra-fine linen lace as it moved over my hand - like a breeze more than anything physical. No that's hands-on history! I'll do more of Ann's tours

Dee. U.S.A. 

Exciting & informative. Ann shared her huge knowledge and experience of lace in a clear way. It was great fun! Wonderful to whizz through the V&A, looking at many exhibits of lace and depictions of lace in artworks. Lovely, then, to have a chat over a cup of tea and to discuss Ann's beautiful snippets of fine lace, examples of what she had talked about. Very inspiring.

Lucy. U.K.

I learned so much more than I expected to learn from Ann's tour. The history, politics, and economics around the meticulous construction of lace is fascinating. It was also wonderful to have a guide through the somewhat overwhelming Victoria and Albert museum. It felt like travelling through time with a new friend.

Jessi. U.S.A.

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Textile Talks Itinerary Page

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