October 2021

For the Love of Sandra Alfoldy,
Anna Leonowens Gallery
Halifax, NS.
October 12-21, 2021

This exhibition celebrates the vibrant life and work of preeminent Canadian Craft Historian Dr. Sandra Alfoldy. Sandra’s research pioneered the discourse around Canadian studio craft, her curatorial work presented craft in a new and critical light, and her teaching inspired a committed passion for craft in a generation of students. For the Love of Sandra Alfoldy is a project that gathers craft, artwork, and stories from Sandra’s friends (her colleagues, collaborators, and students) in order to celebrate Sandra’s life, her work, and her extraordinary impact on her communities.

Fondant icing is often brightly coloured, adding a silky mat sophistication to cakes and pastries. It does not have the texture of most icings; rolled fondant is akin to stiff clay.  It’s utility, however, extends well beyond cosmetics:  Draped over cake layers during the decorating process it forms a protective capsule preserving the freshness of the interior cake for several days depending on how elaborate the cake is. 

If the field of Canadian Craft could be thought of as an intricately constructed cake, Sandra Alfoldy would be its Fondant: containing, enveloping, shaping, preserving, and all with unique style and sophistication.

Sandra Alfoldy

I met Sandra in 2005 when I was completing my theoretical Master’s thesis at McGill University, years before my MFA studies at NSCAD. I was determined to pursue theoretical research in the field of Craft and all of my inquiries led me to Dr. Sandra Alfoldy.  I was very nervous to meet a keystone figure in the shaping of our contemporary Craft dialogue. 

Sandra’s cheerful demeanor and nimble intelligence made me feel instantly welcome, like we were peers with common interests destined to meet. The personal and the professional melted together in our conversations throughout the years, which were always bright and inquisitive, delicious treats.

Dr. Sandra Alfoldy’s love for laughter (and lively bright colours!) draped like silk over her sophisticated and intelligent work as a Historian, Educator, and Curator.  I am in debt to her my friend, mentor, and inspiration, on so many levels.  She stood steadfast in supported my work, research and writing, and her vibrant fervor inspires me to this day.