Exhibitions at Gainsborough Old Hall

 Last week we went to Gainsborough Old Hall to see a couple of exhibitions before they finished.  I have visited the Old Hall before and you can see my posts about the visits here, here, here and here.  The first was a textile and art exhibition based around Medieval animals, both real and fantasy.  I liked the woodcut bear above and it was printed onto a old piano roll which I though was really clever.

 This read dragon looked very much at home in such an ancient building.

As did this willow unicorn.

The costume exhibition was focused on costumes created for films and I picked out the costumes that appealed most to me.  The photos are not as clear as I would have liked, but this was due to the low lighting.  This first one was for Kenneth Branagh in Henry V.

 This was made for Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth - we all noticed what a small waist she had.

 I was surprised at the level of detail. I thought that short cuts might be taken as the costumes would mainly be seen from a distance, but this was not the case.

These three costumes were worn by Gwyneth Paltrow, Joseph Fiennes and Dame Judi Dench from Shakespeare in Love.

 Dame Judi's sleeve had a beautiful basket weave type pattern.

 Emily Blunt wore this embroidered gown in Young Victoria.

 Robert Downey Jr's flamboyant costume came from Restoration.  I liked the slashing on the sleeves and the ribbons.  (I have obviously watched far too much Doctor Who in my lifetime as I kept thinking this mannequin had moved!)

 This costume was worn by Helena Bonham Carter in Suffragette.  I only saw this film earlier this year and it made quite an impression.  Until then, I hadn't really considered the difficulties faced by the male supporters of female suffrage, or the families of the suffragists or suffragettes.

 Finally,  Kristen Scott Thomas' costume from Darkest Hour.  Again, we noticed how tiny she is, although this was more apparent from the back of the suit.  There are more photos from our visit to Gainsborough which will be in my next post.

The Asylum - Steampunk Festival 2017

We went into the city to see the Steampunk Festival, as we did last year (see here).  It has been on since Friday and did seem to be a little quieter today.  It has been a glorious weekend with lots of sun, but I did feel sorry for those Steampunkers who had suits and long dresses.

 Here is our friend Rachael in her Steampunk inspired outfit, standing with the Knight that she painted in situ, right by the Cathedral.  He is, as predicted, very popular with children.

 This Steampunked van was drawing lots of interest.

It has many interesting details.

 Although it was a bit quieter today,  there were still lots of people in Castle Square.

 Usually, Steampunkers are very happy to stop and pose for a photo.  There is a rather cross looking fairy trapped in the cage.
Chris made a purchase of a rather smart coat, so it looks like we will be taking part next year (although I seem to remember we said that last year too.)  Hmm, now what character do I want to be?

Here is the weekend's timetable:  https://www.asylumsteampunk.co.uk/timetable/  - there were lots of activities to take part in.
For some more photos, click the link: http://thelincolnite.co.uk/2017/08/in-pictures-weird-and-wonderful-costumes-at-lincoln-asylum-steampunk-festival-2017/

Steampunk - The Asylum 2016

 The largest Steampunk festival in the world took place over the weekend and a couple of friends were taking part so went went along to meet them and soak up the atmosphere (and gawp at the costumes).  Steampunk is based in Victoriana, but with steam based technology, although, having said that,  there are many interpretations including Goth and Wild West.  It is all-inclusive, all ages and there is a friendly feeling as you walk around, even if you are not taking part.  The main Asylum website is here.  Lots of activities and workshops had been arranged over the weekend - tea duelling seems to be popular!

 Some people had put a lot of work into their costumes.  There were lots of top hats and pith helmets, feathers, frills, corsets and bustles.

Face painting could also be included.

 We loved this man's costume although he did admit to being rather hot and was pleased when the sun went in.

 We watched the Belly Fusion Dance Collective who were appearing at different venues throughout the weekend.

 The steampunked bike drew lots of admiring glances.

 Castle Square was busy and had lots of stalls where steampunk accessories could be purchased.

There was a good atmosphere but it was very crowded.

Here is a link to a news report on the festival.  Chris and I are thinking of taking part next year...maybe.

Another Treat!

I have just been treated to the above book (thanks to my lovely husband!) which was recommended in an embroidery magazine I happened to be looking at. Apparently, it looks at textiles, costume, fashion and social history including portraits and letters. It has rave reviews on Amazon as well so I am really looking forward to receiving it!
On a completely different note, next week sees the beginning of the garden visiting season for me as I am visiting Hodsock Priory (near Blyth in Notts)(http://www.snowdrops.co.uk/) to look at the snowdrops for which they are famous. I have been there many times, but there is always something new to look at and it is a great day out. Hopefully, photos to follow...