News Archive

Summer of Fun at the Museum of English Rural Life – University of Reading

There's a special celebration of country crafts at the Museum of English Rural Life this summer, with free drop-in children's art activities, talks and Masterclass workshops with real experts. 'Weaving Magic Day' on Thursday, 7th August will include opportunities to make a native-American 'Dream-Catcher' or 'Eye of God' or to weave a giant willow dome. 'Harvest Home Day' on Saturday 16th August will feature corn-dolly making and other craft activities on a harvest theme plus a 'Masterclass' Workshop with corn-dolly expert Margaret Rees. There'll also be a talk on harvest memories during World War Two. Then on Thursday, 21st August, there'll be a chance to make a rag-rug loom on a paper plate or to help create a replica rug from the MERL collections. 'Country Cottage Day' will also feature a 'Masterclass' Workshop to make a traditional-style carpet beater. 'All of our events will feature free drop-in family activities throughout the day,' explained Richard Statham, MERL Audience Development Officer. 'But there will also be opportunities to really get to grips with complex country crafts, to visit the Museum's Reading Room – or to try out the new interactive displays in 'Worm Hunt'. So there really will be something for everyone this summer at MERL.' Running 10 – 12.30 and 1 – 4, all events will be free and 'drop-in' with the exception of the Masterclass workshops, where a fee will be payable to help with the cost of materials. Children at the events should be accompanied by an adult. Normal admission applies for these events: £1, OAPs 75p, children and students free. The Museum of English Rural Life is situated on Reading University campus close to the main University entrance on Shinfield Road. For further information, look on our website at www.ruralhistory.org or contact the Museum of English Rural Life on 0118 378 8660, merl@reading.ac.uk ENDS For further information, please contact Richard Statham, Audience Development Officer, Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 229, Reading RG6 6AG 0118 378 8671 r.i.statham@reading.ac.uk