It’s so gratifying to hear that visitors are traveling from all directions to see my exhibition at the SOUTHERN VERMONT ARTS CENTER! Carloads of fans are coming south from Canada (crossing the border from both Ontario and Quebec) and north, east and west from many different states. One woman wrote, “I went to the show yesterday. Seeing the work in person gave me shivers.” I wrote back that I hoped it was the good kind of shivers! If you live too far away to make the trip, here’s a short video that gives an overview of the show.
THE WEE WORLDS OF SALLEY MAVOR
On view through January 7, 2024 at the
SOUTHERN VERMONT ARTS CENTER, Manchester, VT
On view are are over 75 shadow boxes and other objects, including original picture book illustrations spanning my career. The show contains BEDTIME STITCHES, the touring exhibition of artwork for my most recent book, MY BED: Enchanting Ways to Fall Asleep around the World. Also on display are a wall full of wee folk dolls and stand alone pieces that explore a range of social narratives, from the everyday to topical subjects.
“My aim is to breathe life and emotion into embroidery, an art form that is often perceived as purely decorative.” Salley Mavor
The main reason I decided to pause or maybe altogether stop selling my original pieces is that I want more people to experience the detail and 3-dimensional quality of my work in person. Lately, I’ve realized that I can’t afford to let go of my recent pieces because their current value lies in being available to show. If I were to sell what I have, it would be difficult to put together an exhibition like this one in Vermont. The logistics and expense of arranging loans with private collectors would be prohibitive. It would take at least 20 years to make a new body of work to fill a gallery of this size! I want to make art for as long as I can, but I also I want to spend the next 20 years enjoying being a grandmother and that might mean making art at a more leisurely pace.
More exhibitions are being planned, which will be added to the exhibitions page when locations and dates are finalized. I’m also pleased to offer reproductions of my artwork in books, posters, cards, puzzles and notebooks in my Etsy Shop.
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SALLEY MAVOR 
Thank you so much for your e-mail. I live in Arizona. I bought one of your books and loved it. I even tried to make a wee person and quickly gave up—realizing just how hard you work at your projects. Fantastic
Dear Salley,
I saw your exhibit at the Southern Vermont Arts Center twice and it literally brought tears to my eyes. The care, patience, gentleness and patience you bring to your work is astounding.
I’ve been a fan for years and took a class with you many years ago on the Cape and made a Christmas banner which I gave to my son and daughter-in-law. They proudly display it every December and although I do lots of handwork I consider it to be one of my best pieces.
Enjoy your grandchildren and the new found relaxed pace.
Christy
Thank you for visiting my show, Christy. The way you describe your experience touched me deeply. It makes me feel that it’s all worth it!
I’m planning to come to the exhibit with a friend in December. Is “My Bed” available for sale there or from you directly?
Great, I hope that you enjoy he show! The museum shop should have copies of My Bed, unless they happen to be sold out. Signed copies are available in my Etsy shop.