Niche Knits: The Interlooped History of Hosiery Textiles and Fashion features hosiery mills from Gaston county, exploration of different natural and synthetic fibers, fashion trends of stockings through time, and much more. The Gaston County Museum exhibit will include multiple interactive components including a circular knitting station, touch station, and a life-size paper doll closet. “You aren’t going to want to miss this,” Alicyn Wiedrich, Gaston County Museum’s curator said. “The exhibit delves into the history of textiles, while at the same time explores fashion and creativity.” 

One artist will be featured for the duration of the exhibit. Dr. Portia York is a crochet artist, professor, and motivational speaker. Her work ties directly to our themes throughout and pushes the artistry and textiles to a whole new level! “Her work inspired me when I first saw it,” Wiedrich explained. “It’s innovative, different, and expressive.” 

Niche Knits opens to the public on Saturday, September 9, 2023. A public opening will be held on Saturday, September 9 from from 1pm-3pm. Announcements will begin at 1:30pm.