Excitement!!!!

I ripped this directly from the American Swedish Institute website:

Radiant Knits: The Bohus Tradition
January 23–March 29, 2009

The exhibit Radiant Knits: The Bohus Tradition will be on display at the American Swedish Institute from Friday, Jan. 23– Sunday, March 29, 2009. The exhibit focuses on the history of the Swedish Bohus knitting style and the Bohus Stickning industry (1939–1969), and will feature original garments knitted in the Bohus style. This will be the first time that Bohus couture garments have been on exclusive exhibit in the U.S. since the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. The Bohus Stickning organization came into existence in the province of Bohuslän, Sweden, during the Depression era of the 1930s. During this time of financial hardship, a group of women—most married to unemployed quarry workers—sought out Emma Jacobsson, the wife of the governor of Bohuslän, hoping to find a means of supporting their struggling families.

Bohus Sticking was thus born out of need and produced beautiful hand-knitted garments while helping the women support their families financially. From Sweden, the fine knitwear designs spread internationally, including to the U.S., before the operation ended in 1969. Bohus Stickning had grown from the home-based industry of its origin to become a successful business of international reputation.

During the opening weekend, a variety of opportunities to learn about Bohus knitting and its history will be offered at the ASI, including workshops, lectures, guided tours, and a film premiere. A number of special guests from Sweden and the U.S. will be present to share their expertise. For more information about the exhibit and related events click on Bohus_flyer.pdf or visit the Events page.  The registration form can be found at Bohus_registration.pdf

The Minnesota Knitters’ Guild is a proud sponsor of this exhibit.

I am jumping up and down about this one. I’ve been dying to actually knit one of these sweaters. I’m planning on attending and getting inspired to take the plunge!!

I also wanted to share this lovely letter from  Alice Walker to our amazing President-Elect Obama. I have been so full of excitement and emotion this week…tears, hope, relief. As much as I love politics I’m not a political blogger, but this is too much of a big deal to me not to say how thrilled I am and share something. I hope you enjoy her letter regardless of how you voted.