"It is a tradition that has been passed down through generations. But the art of Shetland knitting and the Fair Isle sweater it produced is under threat because of cuts to school budgets.
Crafts experts have warned that a decision by Shetland Islands Council to save £130,000 by offering redundancy to its 14 knitting teachers would be a tragedy for Shetland culture.
Kathy Coull, who runs a textile workshop on Fair Isle, said the move would “wipe out an entire generation of knitters”. She added: “The schools programme is essential to keep the skills alive as it is getting the young ones interested that is important. Considering the amount the council will save, it will do severe damage to our heritage.
...At the moment every pupil on the islands is taught throughout their primary education, giving them a grounding in basic techniques and Fair Isle patterns." [The Times]
Once it's gone - it's gone! Can't we dispense with a couple of bureaucrats instead?
Why is it that all these 'moneysaving decisions' seem to wipe out traditions, crafts, instead of promoting them. Fairisle is such a wonderful tradition . How sad if it goes.
ReplyDelete