The Lace-Making Programme of the University Gozo Campus, last Sunday organised the very popular sixteenth annual, ‘Gozo Lace Day.’
The event was held at the University Gozo Campus and consisted of a number of exhibitions and demonstrations of Gozo lace and talks on matters related to lace-making. Present for the event were the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, Ms Consiglia Azzopardi, coordinator of the Lace Making Programme, and Dr Joseph Azzopardi as the guest speaker.
In her introductory speech Consiglia Azzopardi gave an overview of the works and courses offered by the Lace-Making Programme at the Gozo Campus, while Dr Joseph Azzopardi delivered an interesting talk about the prospects for reviving Maltese Lace.
The Minister for Gozo explained how lace making is considered as one of the unique characteristics of the Gozitan touristic product and how it forms an intrinsic part of the island’s traditions. Thus it still retains an economic as well as a heritage value as one of the authentic products of the island of Gozo. She also praised the various initiatives taken at the University Gozo Campus and remarked that the collective effort of all those concerned are resulting in more educational services on the island.
Certificates were then presented to a number of students who attended courses offered by the Lace-Making Programme.
A large number of lace makers and friends attended the event which also included exhibitions of contemporary lace master-pieces and textile crafts, a competition and a raffle. There were a number of stands, one of which was mounted by the International Organisation of Needle and Bobbin Lace (OIDFA).
A talk about the pattern of Cape Collar was also delivered by Ms Consiglia Azzopardi. Those who attended were given a lace bobbin as a memento.