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An Ottery business owner is calling on the community to get creative by making quilt patches in an effort to tackle the effects of isolation during the pandemic.
Minaxi Chauhan-challis (known as Tina) of Samosa Lady, which offers deli-style Indian food, has been inviting members of the community to join in with the creation of the patchwork quilt in time for the town’s Food & Families Festival in September this year.
Some of the patches for the community quilt
– Credit: Samosa Lady
Like many other business owners, Tina had to adapt overnight during the first lockdown and began offering a takeaway service throughout the Covid restrictions.
She said: “During this time I had heard so many stories from customers and local residents of people’s feelings, experiences and frustrations. I wanted to create an idea where people could express themselves through art and crafts.
“I realised that creating a quilt would give people a chance to share their emotions about Covid and also give everybody a project to keep them occupied while being stuck at home.”
Throughout her eight years of trading in Ottery, Tina has championed and helped support local businesses and charities. Her passion for the community is highlighted in her dedication as a committee member for the Food & Families Festival.
Tina, who is keen to receive more creative squares for the community quilt, said: “Whether craft is something you do or not, whatever your age, whether you are male or female, have lived in Ottery for a long time or just arrived, part of a group or an individual, please put your creativity to work by making a 30cm square of knitting, crochet, montage, quilting, collage, tapestry, fabric painting, felting, embroidery, stitching etc, which we will then assemble together.
“To everyone that has already participated and brought their beautiful squares to us, please, please continue to bring us more. There is plenty of space still to fill before the deadline, which is August 9, ready to exhibit at the Festival on Saturday, September 11.”
After the food festival the quilt will be on display at Ottery Parish Church with a final resting place at Ottery Museum.
You can deliver any finished squares, in a bag, to Tina at Samosa Lady. Include your name, age and contact details. To find out more email [email protected]
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