Image credit: Elizabeth Saterfield, lead curator of the exhibition.

Arthurdale Heritage

Opening Reception is on January 24th, from 5-7PM.

Presentation/Lecture on February 7 in the evening, led by Elizabeth Saterfield, lead curator of the exhibition. More details TBA.

The Fiber Arts Legacy of Arthurdale showcases over eighty exceptional textiles created by Arthurdale homesteaders in Preston County, beginning in the 1930s as well as fiber artists in the region today. The exhibition also incorporates hands-on elements and demonstrations: learn how to card and spin wool, weave on a rigid-heddle loom, and feel wool, silk, and cotton fibers. “We are honored for the opportunity to feature so many historic textiles which have previously never been displayed,” says Elizabeth Satterfield, curator at Arthurdale Heritage. “The fiber arts are a perfect representation of Appalachian resourcefulness, creating something with your own hands that is both useful and beautiful.”

Fiber arts have been woven into the rich fabric of the Arthurdale community since its inception in 1933. Championed by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Arthurdale became the first New Deal homestead, establishing a pattern to be repeated across the nation. Focused on subsistence agriculture and cooperative industry, traditional Appalachian crafts such as weaving, furniture-making, and blacksmithing all became key elements of the project. For 90 years, generations of women have learned to weave across Appalachia— mentored by teachers, relatives, friends, and neighbors. The impact and value of their work is still seen today in the woven pieces left behind as well as the artistic skills demonstrated by their descendants.

This exhibit will be open to the public through March 5th, 2025.

Funding for this exhibition is provided by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation through the Central Appalachia Living Traditions program.