It's said that "Tuesday's child is full of grace", this is quite true indeed for our textile director. It takes a very graceful person, to work with all of the gowns, dresses, suits, and all the other pieces from the textiles permanent collection. Mrs. Ralston is a dedicated volunteer both with W-F (as textiles director and museum shop volunteer) and with Playhouse on the Square (working with hats and costumes). She's extraordinary to watch undress and dress the forms...her attention to detail is without compare. Each piece is delicate and most are fragile to the point that one small tug on a button can shatter the entire garment, thus making her work rather complex and tedious. Mrs. Ralston has been my personal source and inspiration for textiles knowledge. While I have been a visual merchant for many years, there's a certain level of intensity working with these pieces at W-F. She teaches her volunteers handling and care of the garments when working in the third floor bedroom we call the "Museum Room". Usually, the room is open for guests to see...and on occassion seeing Mrs. Ralston working her magic. Truly, there is nothing like working with these ladies that have so much passion. I envy each and every one of them.
Mrs. Ralston often showcases her personal collections in the museum, either on forms or in cases. During the "Spring Awakenings" exhibit, she has graciously displayed a collection of lace in the "back porch" hall, just when you come in the back door to tour the museum. Her lace collection will be on display through the exhibit and into the summer months.
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