Embroidery kits with 17 different patterns by Karólína Guðmundsdóttir, redesigned by Lára Magnea Jónsdóttir. Needlework has a positive effect on both hand and mind. Providing joy from creating and seeing the work develop, and at the end being rewarded with a beautiful object for the home.
The exhibition Karólína the Weaver will open at Árbær Open Air Museum this spring and will continue for three years. In conjunction with the exhibition a collaborative project to produce embroidery kits was launched between the Icelandic Handicrafts Association, textile designer Lára Magnea Jónsdóttir (owner of Saumakassinn) and Reykjavík City Museum.
Karólína Guðmundsdóttir (1897-1981) studied weaving in Copenhagen, and for decades she ran her own weaving atelier on Ásvallagata in Reykjavík. The products of the atelier included upholstery fabrics and curtains for private customers, businesses, and public bodies. Woollen embroidery fabrics were woven at Karólína’s atelier, and she sold embroidery kits which enjoyed great popularity. Karólína’s embroidered wall-hangings and cushions adorned many Icelandic homes in the mid twentieth century. She found models for her patterns in imported needlework magazines, as well as commissioning original designs. Lára Magnea has selected patterns by Karólína, which she has redesigned, taking account of modern-day needs. Embroidery enjoys growing popularity all over the world. Today, as in the past, the objective is to enjoy the rewarding experience of a creative craft and take a break from everyday cares. Interestingly, both Karólína and Lára Magnea have served as chair of the Handicrafts Association: Karólína 1923-1927 and Lára Magnea 2007-2009.
When the exhibition opened at the Árbær Museum this spring, 12 embroidery patterns were offered for sale, and another five will be presented at DesignMarch. At the exhibition in Aðalstræti 10, all 17 embroidery designs will be displayed, together with Karólína‘s original patterns.
During DesignMarch Unnar Örn Auðarson, curator of the exhibition Karólína the Weaver will give a talk about Karólína at Aðalstræti 10.