Guest curator to speak
on Museum L-A display

LEWISTON — Museum L-A guest curator Jacqueline Field will lead an exhibition talk and tour of “Covering the Nation: the Art of the Bates Bedspread” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13.

It is free, but reservations are required because space is limited to a maximum of 20 participants.

Field will provide an informal discussion and an insider’s view of the exhibition, which will give an opportunity to discuss and ask questions about woven and printed bedspreads, learn about the curator’s choices for the exhibit, and find out how the bedspread exhibition was planned.

“I will delve into the world of design and designers, and discuss the design-weaving relationship,” Field said. She will also address Bates inventions and innovation, the evolution of design and production techniques, looms, screen-printing, dyes and color.

Over 30 bed covers are organized in thematic groups such as “Flora and Fauna” and “Children.”

Field, a textile and dress historian, studied textiles in her home country of Scotland. After experience in the textile industry, she pursued an academic career and is a former costume curator. She makes presentations at local and national conferences. She co-authored the book “American Silk, 1830-1930 Entrepreneurs and Artifacts,” which includes the history of the Haskell Silk Co. of Westbrook. Field has published numerous articles in academic journals.

“We are planning other programs and events revolving around the exhibit,” Robert Caron, Museum L-A’s project coordinator, said. “The interest has been very high with visitors wanting to learn more about all parts of the exhibit from the designers and weaving techniques, to the history and stories behind the bedspreads.”

“Covering the Nation: The Art of the Bates Bedspread” runs through May 2017.

FMI, reservations: 207-333-3881.