Threads of Connection

For more than 20 years, volunteers have helped keep the tradition of lace making alive at Powerhouse. Among them are Barbara and Isa, who share a passion for lace and a commitment to sharing the skills and traditions behind the craft.

Volunteer Barbara Stokes' home is filled with lace. Over many years, she has built an extraordinary collection of lace pieces, patterns and books that reflects decades of learning, making and research. For Barbara, lace is more than a decorative art form. Through intricate stitches, patterns and designs, makers leave behind traces of their creativity, skill and experience. By introducing new makers to the craft, Barbara helps ensure that knowledge continues to be shared.

For Isa, lace making became a way to connect with others. After moving to Australia from Spain, she found a welcoming community through Powerhouse and a shared passion for lace. Today, Isa introduces others to lace making through monthly workshops at Powerhouse Castle Hill, sharing techniques and traditions with new generations of makers.

Powerhouse is home to one of Australia's most significant textile and garment collections, including an internationally important collection of lace. The collection continues to inspire makers, researchers and volunteers, while the lace community helps keep those skills and traditions part of contemporary practice. Through workshops, mentoring and a willingness to share their expertise, volunteers like Barbara and Isa continue to connect people through lace.