Celebration Threads Ends SRO

09 Sep 2008    

One of the highlights of the exhibition year in the TCD gallery was the recent show of work by its namesake, Dr. Robert Hillestad. One of the longest running shows in the gallery, it was also one of the most visited. Legions of university faculty, staff and alums made the trip to East Campus to enjoy the spectacular color, wit and panache of Rob Hillestad's creations. The exhibition culminated in a gala reception that marked the publication of the monograph on Rob's work published by the Friends of the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery, and appropriately titled Robert Hillestad: A Textiles Journey. The book provides an overview of Rob's career, with accompanying essays that provide insights into the technical and aesthetic merits of the work. The catalogue is available through the Friends of the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery or from Professor Wendy Weiss, Director of the gallery.

It was standing room only with over 300 guests on hand for the August 24 gala at which both Dr. Hillestad and textiles scholar JoAnn Stabb spoke. Volunteers modeled a collection of Rob's garments and a boutique created for the occasion by the Friends helped to raise funds to support the activities of the gallery. The festive and joyful coming together of gallery friends and supporters was a fitting testimonial to Rob Hillestad's impact on the greater TCD, CEHS, University and Nebraska communities through his work as both educator and artist.