Weavers Guild of rhode island
Sally DuBois Weaving Award
Sally (Sara) DuBois began weaving in 1977, in a class taught by Norma Smayda at the South County Museum. She has been a Weavers Guild of Rhode Island member ever since.
Trained at the Rhode Island School of Design in industrial design and mechanical drawing (graduating in 1946), she became fascinated by the designing of weaving patterns. When the Guild became custodians of the Bertha Gray Hayes Archives, Sally worked to decode the drafts.
Using Miss Hayes’ name draft code, found in previously unpublished materials, she verified that many of the sample card designs are name drafts. And using subtle clues in the handwritten materials, Sally showed that the designs created by Miss Hayes during her final illness, in Miriam Hospital, are also name drafts, relating to her illness and to her stay at the hospital.
Sally loved to share her insights and to talk about weaving.
She was always excellent company.
Criteria for the Award
WGRI members in good standing are eligible to submit one or more handwoven runners for this award.
The basic motif for the runner must come from Weaving Designs by Bertha Gray Hayes: Miniature Overshot Patterns. The weaver may manipulate or develop the draft, but a basic Hayes’ motif must underlie the design.Any weave structure is acceptable. The runner must have borders.
Submissions for the award will be accepted at the May2022 WGRI meeting. The draft and notes must accompany the runner, which will be provided with an identification number. The written materials shouldcontain no personal information. The WGRI Board will maintain a list of names and assigned numbers.
Two jurors chosen by the WGRI Board will review all submissions and determine a first-place award.
All entries will be displayed and the award winner will be recognized and honored at the WGRI 75th Anniversary Celebration on October 1, 2022.
Approved by WGRI Executive Board April 2020