We use signs to communicate. Simple gestures - fingers crossed or hands together - convey instant visual messages. Our safety depends on recognising signals and reading signs e.g. for danger. Our presence is evident in the marks we leave behind, our footprints or a signature. Emblems and badges, logos and brand names can indicate ownership and status.

We rely on signs and symbols to travel along motorways, down urban streets, through the countryside, in other countries. Signs and symbols can cross language barriers. The signboards of pubs, restaurants and hotels, shops or places of interest vie for our attention. Using a computer involves recognising icons!

Symbols are used to represent something else. In China the dragon was a symbol of the Emperor. On the costume panel shown above the dragon is clutching at a flaming pearl which represents wisdom. It is surrounded by stylised cloud sceptres called ruyi, symbols of longevity and good luck, and bats, symbols of good fortune.

In some cultures love tokens, portents and omens are expressed through embroidery. In others creeds and doctrines, rites of passage, and special times of year are represented by symbols stitched into garments and covers. In literature and art, objects are used to convey symbolic meaning.

Although a multi-media approach and machine embroidery can be included, hand stitching should predominate

Informed by the working research, Simon Block and Charles Gotto - the previous and present Presidents of the Embroiderers Guild - will judge the work on way in which hand stitching has been used to interpret the idea and create the embroidery. All the entries are displayed and the winners announced at the AGM in 2003. The winners receive a certificate and a silver cup engraved with their names. These are perpetual trophies. i e. They are returned to the Guild for the next competition, not won out right.

ENTRY DETAILS

Although a multi-media approach and machine embroidery can be included, the entry should be based on an a original design and hand stitching should predominate.

The entry should be accompanied by trail samples, research notes and drawings.

The completed work should not exceed 30cms x 35cms. The entry should be finished and mounted within these measurements but NOT framed or glaze.

The entry should be sent in a jiffy bag with stamps enclosed to cover the return postage, together with completed return address labels.

Firmly attached to all of the enclosures, the entry should carry:

•    a title for the work
•    the member's name and address
•   a telephone number and/or email address
•   a Guild membership number
•   the name of the Branch to which the members belongs