The Campus of the University of Malta Gozo held the ffifteenth edition of the Gozo Lace Day. This annual event aims to promote and foster the information on the work of lace and included an exhibition of works by those who study at the campus.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono explained how the Gozo Lace Day was an established event in the annual calendar of the University Campus in Gozo. This activity draws much interest from many Maltese and Gozitan to Gozo specifically for this programme. Through the work done in the campus, many were able to follow courses which led them to gain university qualifications which has particular relevance to Gozo. This also links to the objectives of the eco-Gozo vision which among others seeks to preserve the traditions and crafts that although are inherited from the past, still have value.

Also present was Mr Anton Tabone, who was former Speaker of the House of Representatives and the first Minister for Gozo. Mr Tabone congratulated the director and staff of the campus of the University of Gozo, while commending the initiative of Consiglia Azzopardi. He augured that in the coming academic year a Bachelor of lace course was also offered.

Mrs Consiglia Azzopardi also referred to ongoing preparations for the following academic year. She said that the course leading to a Diploma in Lace Studies at the University Campus of Gozo is just the first step. This year’s guest speaker, Dr Raymond C. Xerri delivered a short talk about the influence of Maltese Lace spread about by emigrants in their host countries.

There were also demonstrations of felted sheep wool, embroidery, card weaving, beading and lace making. Information about lace courses were available at the Lace Making Programme.

Everyone that that attended the day had the opportunity to view the stand of the the International Organisation of Needle and Bobbin Lace (OIDFA) and by the Malta Lace Guild

A talk about the new pattern of Umbrella was delivered by Ms Consiglia Azzopardi demonstrating the newly discovered technique in working the English-Stitch ground. Also made was a reference to designs from old specimens belonging to the collection of Fr Joseph Diacono, who was a leading promoter of lace work in Gozo.

At the end of event the Minister for Gozo, presented certificates to several students who attended courses on the Lace Making Programme.

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