Save the date for a “tea” reception on Saturday, April 18 at 3:00pm at Hobbs Hall.

UUCK Board member Claudia Miller has brought more than 30 pieces of traditional rug art to the gallery at Hobbs Hall. The unique exhibit will run from March 1 to April 30.

The rugs were hooked by Shirley VanValkenburg (1937-2025), retired Kent State University professor, Title IX activist and textile artist. Shirley entrusted Claudia with her beautiful rugs which Claudia is now sharing with her beloved community.

Rug hooking is a craft and art traditionally done by women. It has a long, practical history. When fabrics wore out, women used the worn out fabric to make rugs as a
means to keep the cold floors warm.

But Shirley’s rugs are different. Some of the rugs are whimsical, a reflection of Shirley’s humor. Others capture the mood of the day or the culture of the Midwest, where she always lived.

For Shirley and those who share her art and craft, rug hooking led to a community of friends.