Bristol Art Museum Hosts Panel Discussion on Textile Industry's Past, Present, and Future

"Parallel Threads – Entangled Ends" Exhibit Explores Textile Heritage and Innovation
Bristol, RI - The Bristol Art Museum announces an upcoming panel discussion, "Entangled Ends: A Textile Story," as part of its current exhibit, "Parallel Threads – Entangled Ends" on  Sun., Jan. 12, at 1 p.m. at the Museum, 10 Wardwell Street to bring together industry veterans and experts to discuss the rich history and evolving future of the textile industry.

The event is $5 for members, $10 for non-members. 


​The panel discussion will feature a distinguished group of speakers, including:

• Sam Brickle, Chairman of The Brickle Group (via Zoom)
• Joanne Kriskowski, Former Creative Director for Exports at Skytex, Mexico
• Susan Pelland, Former Color Chemist, Cranston Print Works
• Gil Tavares, Former Vice President of Sales at Regal Fabrics
• Duncan Whitehead, Director of Duncan Whitehead Incorporated

Moderated by Madelyn Shaw, Curator of Textiles at the National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution, in Washington, D.C., the panel will explore the socio-economic impact of textile mill closures at the end of the 20th century and the industry's transformation in the face of technological advancements and global competition.
"This panel discussion is an integral component of our 'Parallel Threads – Entangled Ends' exhibit,” said Mary Dondero, curator and board member of the Bristol Art Museum. “The discussion will bring together diverse voices from the textile industry, offering our community a unique opportunity to understand the complex tapestry of our industrial heritage and its ongoing evolution. We're excited to facilitate a dialogue that honors our past and looks forward to innovative and sustainable futures in textiles."
The event intends to bridge the gap between the industry's historical significance and its future potential, touching on topics such as:

• The impact of mill closures on local communities​
• Lessons learned from past industry practices
• Emerging opportunities in sustainability and high-tech materials
• The role of local artistry in the modern textile landscape
• Strategies for fostering innovation and resilience in the industry

This panel discussion is open to the public and will appeal to those interested in the intersection of art, industry, and community development.

---