Rich Delta Yarns to tell
A PASSION for the community they grew up in inspired Meg Carlsen and Christine Clark to launch a new event celebrating the stories of the North.
The inaugural Delta Yarns events include photographic exhibitions, vintage fashion displays, live music, feasting, writing workshops, story sharing and a nationally significant art and design exhibition called Toad Busting which premieres in the Burdekin.
Toad Busting features the work of renowned artists and designers from across Australia including the Huxleys, iconic 80s fashion designer Jenny Bannister and avantgarde jewellery designer Kate Durham.
Melbourne curator and designer Lia Tabriah will guide visitors, talking about her luxury toad skin accessories brand.
The stunning images of photographer David Fell in collaboration with Delta Yarns showcase the unique Burdekin landscape and feature a vast collection of vintage fashion.
More than 1000 pieces from the roaring ‘ 20s to the powerpadded ’ 90s create an impetus for gathering local narratives.
A selection of these intricate garments will be on display alongside the Re:collections photographic exhibition. Entry is free to both Toad Busting and Re:collections.
Meg said the Burdekin was once known as the fashion capital of the North, with people travelling from all over to scour its many boutiques.
Sibby Saitta’s popular shop was a highly regarded fashion mecca before closing in 2018. Now, the building, along with other disused stores in Ayr’s main street, will play host to a pop-up gallery.
Stunning fashion will be displayed alongside images.
“Since Christine and I left the Burdekin to attend university in Brisbane after completing grade 12 at Ayr State High School, we have talked about creating something that acknowledges and documents the richness and cultural diversity that we know is here,” Meg said.
“Having both lived away from the area for the best part of 40 years, living in Australia
and overseas, we have been aware that people outside and even locals, don’t understand what goes on culturally here is special, unusual and unique.
“The genesis for that ‘one day’ thought becoming what is being presented by Delta Yarns over the next two weeks and we hope annually, was the loss of my father and Christine’s mother. Both born and bred Burdekinites who loved their community and were
strongly community minded.
“When you lose a parent, suddenly they’re not there to tell you that detail rich story you’ve heard so often before.”
Meg said the exhibition would not have been possible without the support of Lucy Poppi on the ground in the Burdekin, who herself is due to have a baby soon.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response and have been inundated right from open
ing,” Meg said.
“People have just kept coming, we weren’t expecting such a response but word of mouth spread very quickly.
“We’ve had quite a few repeat visitors, especially for our yarn sessions which is a place to sit down and tell stories.
“As I keep saying to many, at this time of financial uncertainty, to understand how we navigate our financial future, the first thing we do is reflect on the past recessions and depressions to guide us.
“The past guides us into the future and the future is a reflection of our past.”
After debuting in Ayr, the exhibit will head south to Melbourne and Brisbane.
The Delta Yarn events creatively retell the histories of North Queensland’s people and places in unexpected ways.
On September 24, Triple J’s discovery Clea will perform in a magical intimate night of music and storytelling in the backyard of Vintage Rose.
The evening includes performances from Kate Martin and Dan Baker and a retro smorgasbord of food and vintage style will served up to guests.
Tickets are available online through deltayarns.org.
Internationally acclaimed fashion designer Lydia Pearson who helmed the label Easton Pearson will do a two-day workshop on September 25 and 26 on the art of up-cycling fashion.
Local artists and contemporary makers will have their works on display.