Barbara Proctor

Another medium on display was the immaculate needlework of Barbara Proctor, profile below. Her craftsmanship was outstanding and in particular her Birds of Paradise drew many admiring comments on both the skill level and the visual impact of her work.

 

 

 

Barbara was born in the Manchester area in 1927 and served in the Women’s Land Army during the latter years of the war. This encouraged her interest in animals and her enjoyment of outdoor activities such as gardening, walking, cycling and swimming. Embroidery was one of her indoor hobbies.

After marrying Don in 1952 her time for most of these pursuits was rather limited by frequent moves as an “Army Wife” including postings to Germany, Kenya and Cyprus and also bringing up three children (one born in each of those countries).

When the children left home there was more time for her interests; horse riding was added to the sports whilst embroidery was joined by knitting which enhanced the wardrobes of seven grandchildren as they matured.

Since 1988 there has unfortunately been an inexorable decline in her sporting activities until they are now over (wheelchair racing not being a suitable alternative). Gardening is largely supervisory and her various needles are silent. The items on view are a small sample of the work she has enjoyed creating and which has brought pleasure to many viewers.

 

 

 

 

NEW FOREST AND EAST DORSET BRANCH of the MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE ASSOCIATION ART EXHIBITION,

UPTON HOUSE,

MARCH 2008.