There is a prestigious Embroiderers' Guild of America scholarly event taking place next year here in the U.S. I hope I am not the only one interested in having the very best Lace scholars as speakers at such an event, especially since (generally speaking) the subject of Lace is not being taught in American institutions of higher learning. In a field of truly major embroidery and textile experts, Jack A. Smith is the one speaker who will give a Lace talk: "Traditional Lace Making Techniques from the LePuy Area of France". Does anyone on Arachne know of this man and his level of Lace expertise? His official credentials are Professor of the History of Costuming and Costume Design at Elon University. He could not be found when I searched the faculty at this university, so I wrote to EGA for more information. By G**gling the Performing Arts Department at Elon University, he can be found, with a photo. No mention of Lace. He teaches Costume Design, Introduction to Theatre, Costume Construction, Theatre History and Literature, Theatrical Make-up and Global Studies. The Chairman of the EGA event has written to me that Dr. Smith is fascinated enough about LePuy Lace, that in his travels he returns to LePuy to hours and hours of study with the ladies who are continuing this tradition. She says he is a very entertaining speaker, has spoken to EGA chapters about his love of Lace making in LePuy. We should be delighted that Lace has even been considered for this EGA event. I will tell you in a later memo about it, since someone on Arachne may be interested in attending and it is open to all. I might attend, but will need a roommate. I know a lot about 4 of the 5 other speakers (all formidable experts) and their books. It will be an honor to be in their presence. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center..
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