Over 11 years ago, I ran a successful arts research project called ‘Losing Lace’ which generated a lot of interest and allowed me to discover a great deal about the history and importance of the lace industry in our area.  Initially this was driven by my personal, family connections – starting with my Great Grandfather Thomas Stocks and finishing with my father Barry Stocks who later became director of Birkins – but I soon realised how much there was to learn about the lace trade in Erewash. This time I wished to involve more artists & people living in these communities & beyond! 
My Legacy of Lace arts project  launched in February 2021 aimed to celebrate the heritage of Nottingham lace within the towns & villages in Erewash, Derbyshire exploring the area’s shared history through art and creativity within the community. While Nottingham lace is well-known around the world, many people aren’t aware of the part Erewash played – and continues to play – in the industry. Lace has helped to shape everything from the Erewash architectural landscape to the lives of its residents. Thanks to public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England, Foundation Derbyshire & Erewash Borough Council the community were encouraged to get involved in creative events & sharing their stories with five resident artists who started working from Erewash Museum’s lace collections in May 2021; Louise West, Kerri Pratt, Kim Fowler,  Hannah Millard & lead artist Victoria Brown who aimed to bring the Legacy of Lace to life through their work at The Erewash Museum & Long Eaton Art Room. From painting expanded lace patterns to bobbin lace design, photography, illustration and abstract architectural paintings they created new work inspired by the lace roots of this region. The Legacy of Lace summer exhibition in the Lally Gallery at Erewash Museum commenced with a tea party in the museum gardens and over 3000 people visited the exhibition, for some it was their first trip out in almost two years!