570 lacemaking masters from various regions in Russia and several foreign nations participated in the event. A new record was set for largest-scale lacemaking by the walls of the Vologda Kremlin, in the presence of Russian Book of Records representatives, where the nation’s best lace-maker was selected.
Svetlana Medvedeva spoke with participants in the event, one of whom gave the First Lady a lace wrap that she had made herself.
At the Vologda Kremlin, the First Lady also visited the restored Cathedral of St Sophia, the Vologda State Museum-Preserve of History, Architecture and Art, and the Lace Museum, where she viewed the works of Vologda masters from various periods and left a note in the distinguished visitors’ book.
In addition, Svetlana Medvedeva visited the Governor’s College of Folk Trades, sitting in on classes in all of the workshops, and spoke with students and instructors. “Lacemaking is an enormous amount of work. I see that it requires great patience,” Svetlana Medvedeva noted.
Vologda Lace is a type of Russian lace woven on bobbins (wooden rods). Vologda lacemaking as a trade has existed since the beginning of the 19th century. Vologda lace-makers have won many top awards, major gold medals and certificates at various international expos and fairs.