Claire Wilkinson of the Banff Snail Mail Society
On Friday night, we were lucky enough to have Claire Wilkinson, of the
Banff Snail Mail Society, at
Craft Cafe. The first time I heard of Claire was at the
Banff Public Library, a place I am quite fond of. When I walked in and read a poster saying that on Thursday nights I could make mail art, using vintage typewriters, I was sold. But, at the time, I had a wee one, and evenings were difficult for activities. Fast forward to this summer, when I started to talk with Claire at the Banff Community Greenhouse, where we both have a plot. By the end of the conversation, I had figured out who she was. I asked her about an upcoming workshop she was holding, and about some supplies I was looking for, and she sweetly wrote back to me via
Etsy, where I have a shop. Ever since then, I have been wanting to invite her to Craft Cafe. I finally did and was thrilled when she said, "YES!"
Mail Art by Sheena Miller
Mail art started in the 1960s, and is simply visual art that goes through the postal system.
Here is a brief history.
I plan to write a blog post for
Highline Magazine about Claire's evening at Craft Cafe, so I won't spill the beans here. Just wanted to share a couple of photos. And to say how pleased I am that Claire generously provided a little maintenance for my little gem of a typewriter. She gave me a new ribbon for it, is reinking my old one, and taught me that I have a highly sought after machine. It is from 1949 and they sell for up to a $1,000 completely refurbished!! I won't part with mine. I am thrilled! I won't even say how little I paid for it... ok, $25!! Amazing...
My lovely little Royal...
My favourite key... thank goodness, I have shift freedom ;)
Ok, I will be sure to keep you "posted" about my Highline blog post from Craft Cafe. In the meantime, please leave me a comment if you like to create and send mail art. Would you please share some links to your work or to any info you would like to share about this movement...
