The 2017 Craft Award for Interpretation of Provincial History
Katherine Walters of The Purple Raven Boutique
HSA Executive Director, Andrea MacDonald, is pictured with award winner Katherine Walters of The Purple Raven Boutique at her booth during the 2017 Craft Council Christmas Fair.
The Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (HSA) is proud to announce the recipient of the 2017 Craft Award for Interpretation of Provincial History – Katherine Walters of The Purple Raven Boutique. Katherine was recognized for her wire knit jewellery which interpret various aspects of Newfoundland and Labrador’s traditions, history and culture.
The award was presented to Katherine on November 9th, during the opening of the Craft Council’s Christmas Craft Fair.
Katherine Walters of The Purple Raven Boutique receiving the 2017 Craft Award for Interpretation of Provincial History during the opening of the Craft Council Christmas Fair on November 9th, 2017
The Craft Award for Interpretation of Provincial History:
As part of the HSA’s mandate to preserve and present the province’s cultural heritage, the Association also celebrates the hard work of others who strive to keep our stories alive. In 2004, the HSA partnered with the Craft Council of NL to celebrate the work of craftspeople in presenting Newfoundland and Labrador’s history, through sponsorship of the Craft Award for Interpretation of Provincial History.
The Award for Interpretation of Provincial History is given to a craftsperson who uses their skill to interpret and present the history and heritage of the province in unique ways. The techniques or materials used by the craftsperson may be either traditional or contemporary. However, primary importance is attached to how the craftsperson interprets the province’s history.
Nominations for the award are collected from the Craft Council’s membership. The award is presented annually, usually during the Craft Council’s Christmas Craft Fair.
An example of Katherine's jewellery: wire knit pendant with a Labradorite cabochon
The Purple Raven Boutique:
Katherine Walters is a wire artist and jewelry maker specializing in wire knitting techniques. She is based in St. John’s with a studio in the Quidi Vidi Plantation. Her jewelry is available for sale at the Heritage Shops and other select locations in the province.
She makes bold, elegant jewelry for women and men from copper, bronze, silver and gold-filled metals. Story and meaning drives the inspiration behind Katherine’s work. Her techniques are rooted in history, but her designs are a modern interpretation of her home, Newfoundland and Labrador. Many of her pieces have been inspired by the stories of the province and her own experiences living here.
The L'Anse Aux Meadows Collection features Viking wire knitting and chainmail techniques that draws inspiration from Norse history and their connection to the province.
The Traditions Collection draws upon the stories and traditions that Katherine grew up with - the White Fleet, Sheilagh's Brush, the annual church garden party, and more.
The Flora and Fauna Collection draws inspiration from the stark beauty of the province’s rugged landscape.
The Story Pendant Collection features one-of-a-kind cabochons that each have a unique story to tell.
Katherine’s goal is that every piece of jewelry represents a story, and that its wearer can make it part of their own.