Community Gallery
10 July - 1 August 2021

Born in 1929 and raised in Devonport, 42-year Morrinsville resident, Valerie Crompton (née Titchener) has been inspired by colour, design, fibres, fabrics, and threads since she could hold a needle. This collection draws from a lifetime of hand-made items collected by her daughters, Helen Crompton (Waiheke Island), Sara Meade (Auckland) and Vivienne Holt (Australia), who treasure these family taonga. Each piece is unique, inspired by Valerie’s surroundings and experiences, sometimes found in unlikely places and with materials others might throw away. Added to this collection are treasures selected from Valerie’s own collection, plus sewing and needlework from her mother (Amelia Titchener, née Davies) and grandmother (Amelia Davies, née Tillott). And to demonstrate that creativity is contagious, Valerie’s daughters – and granddaughter, Amelia Meade – include works of their own. Photographs of exhibits on the slideshow include images taken by grandson, Oliver Meade, and Richard Meade (son-in-law).

Valerie’s natural generosity has ensured that her prolific and diverse works have travelled around the world with friends and family. At 91, she is still an active member of Morrinsville's Creative Fibre and Stitches groups, where her creations continue, though at a somewhat slower pace.

We hope that you find pleasure, inspiration and joy in this collection.

Sara Meade