Thousand Islands Arts Center’s 31st Annual Weaving History Conference Welcomes 201 Attendees from Around the Globe
CLAYTON, NY — The Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum, welcomed 201 attendees and 19 presenters for its 31st annual Weaving History Conference, held virtually October 19–21, 2026.
The three-day conference brought together historians, artists, scholars, museum professionals, practicing weavers, and textile enthusiasts to explore the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of handweaving and related fiber arts. Attendees joined from the United States, Canada, Portugal, France, Singapore, England, India, the Republic of Tatarstan, Australia, and Denmark, including participants in Lisbon and New Delhi.
Organized and led by Marina Loew, Arts Center’s curator and director of visitor experience, the conference offered opportunities to share research, exchange ideas, and connect with a global community dedicated to textile history. Loew coordinated the 19 presenters, whose presentations sparked conversations across traditions, places, and generations.
“It was another fabulous year for the Weaving History Conference!” said Loew. “As you listen and learn during the conference, it’s always fascinating to hear how topics unintentionally intersect. This year we had conversations around how patterns and techniques migrate from one country to another, how weavers’ lives intersect, and the hidden meanings and codes behind chosen motifs and designs. There’s always something interesting to learn from our amazingly informative and engaging presenters.”
The Arts Center is thrilled to offer this annual conference and continues to be delighted by its global attendance. The participation of people from so many parts of the world reflects a shared enthusiasm for preserving textile history and deepening our understanding of the people, traditions, and creativity behind handwoven cloth.
The Arts Center extends its sincere thanks to all presenters and attendees for making this year’s conference an engaging and memorable exchange of knowledge.
To learn more about the Thousand Islands Arts Center and its exhibitions, educational programs, and textile collection, visit TIArtsCenter.org.
