Programs and Events
Our programs and events highlight the wide range of the Avenir’s current exhibitions, as well as guest presenters on unique subjects. Join us for these free, public lectures on an intriguing array of textile topics!
Make and Mend
First Saturday of Every Month*
2026 dates: Feb. 7, Mar. 7, April 4, May 2, June 6, Aug.1, Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5
*No Make & Mend in January or July 2026
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Does your beloved sweater have a hole? Do your jeans need a patch?
Drop in to our monthly Make & Mend Open Studio, where we welcome all textile-based projects! Whether you’re into upcycling, mending, fabric DIY, cosplay, stuffy repair, quilting, or anything else textiles, this is the perfect space to get creative.
Basic materials will be provided, but if you have specific fabric, thread, or tools you’d like to use, feel free to bring them along! Please note, this is not an alteration service; we want to help you build the skills and knowledge to mend and maintain your own clothes and accessories!
Welcome, Vidhita Raina Ph.D.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
5:30 – 7 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Join us in welcoming Vidhita Raina Ph.D., the new Linda L. Carlson Research Chair and Assistant Professor in Design and Merchandising. At this evening talk, Raina will share her research interests, highlight intriguing objects from the Asian textile and dress collections, and goals for her time at the museum.
Needlework Finishing: Thinking Outside the Frame
Saturday, February 28
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Hosted by Vicky Hays
Do you have a finished needlework or other fiber art that needs a fun way to be displayed? This class is for you. Learn ways to finish off your project with easy techniques such as sewing and gluing rather than a traditional frame. We will also share ideas for reusing and repurposing new and vintage items; a few items will be provided for finishing inspiration. If you have finished needlework or other, feel free to bring it along for ideas
"Lightning" Bug Talks
Wednesday, March 4
5:30 – 7 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Let’s learn about arthropods at the “Lighting” Bug Talks! Lightning talks are short 5 – 7 minute presentations on a specific topic. Inspired by the Avenir’s current exhibition The Fashion “Bug”: Insects In and On Our Cloth, enjoy several speakers providing their different perspectives on the intersection of insects and human cultures. Speakers include:
Marek Borowiec, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Insect Systematist and Director of C. P. Gillette Museum
Paula Alaszkiewicz, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Design and Merchandising and Avenir Museum Curator
Vidhita Raina, Ph.D.
Linda L. Carlson Research Chair and Assistant Professor of Design and Merchandising
Malaney Dodson
Animal Wellbeing Coordinator and Registrar for the Butterfly Pavilion
Upcoming Events
Past Programs, Museum Hours and Contact Info
