Last Saturday, just after midday the artists and invited guests attended the opening event for stitched and bound 2026 at the Midland Junction Arts Centre (MJAC). The formal proceedings were held in a function room behind the galleries and attendees were treated to music by the Community Chamber Collective whilst mingling over drinks and nibbles. Jennifer Haynes, the Executive Director of Arts and Culture for MJAC, welcomed everyone and introduced the speaker Ruth De Vos, an award winning artist, a quilt-pattern designer, and a published picture book illustrator.

Afterwards the attendees moved through the galleries and corridors viewing the exhibits on the walls or on plinths. Some paused to closely study intricate details of the works, others leaned in to read the artist statements, with many chatting to others about their impressions and pieces they liked.

There was also a room to sit and watch a short video of a few of the artists talking about their pieces.

The exhibition runs until the end of June, so plenty of time to go and have a look at these amazing works.