Machynlleth could be getting a permanent plaque and exhibition in recognition of famed fashion designer Laura Ashley.
A proposal to install a plaque and exhibition to celebrate Laura Ashley, who opened her first shop in the Powys town in 1961, was put before Machynlleth Town Council at their April meeting.
Ann Evans from Heritage Hub 4 Mid Wales made a plea to the council for support in funding permanent exhibition and plaque to commemorate the fashion designer and her connection with the Mid Wales town.
OTHER NEWS:
- Investigation into robbery near Newtown library closes after suspect dies
- Police closed A483 Newtown bypass over concerns for person's welfare
- Powys tourist attraction unveils plan to reopen as part of major redevelopment
In 2023 Ms Evans helped put together a temporary exhibit hosted by Machynlleth Museum of Modern Art, titled ‘For the Love of Laura Ashley’.
The collection featured newly acquired archives, an exclusive commissioned Pixel Portrait Quilt of Laura Ashley designed and made by British self-taught Quilter Devida Bushrod as well as some original Laura Ashley dresses.
Ms Evans also revealed that she had received permission to install a Purple Plaque, a scheme designed to install plaques on buildings to increase recognition of the lives of women who have had a significant and long-lasting impact associated with Wales, at the site of Laura Ashley’s first shop.
She is currently seeking £600 of funding to install it.
Councillors at the meeting supported the initiative, with further discussions to be held at their next meeting.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here