It was a bumper turnout at East Markham WI’s June meeting when 39 members and seven visitors gathered to hear Dawn Cragg MBE talk about her life and work.
President Alena welcomed everyone and announced that three members of East Markham WI had between them clocked up over 150 years of WI membership. Certificates in recognition of this were presented to Joan McGlen (52 years as a member of East Markham WI), Daphne Hardy (50 years at East Markham) and June Nunn (50 years as a WI member of across Nottinghamshire). Elizabeth Banks, who joined East Markham WI last year, first joined the WI in the 1960s; once details are confirmed, Elizabeth can look forward to her own recognition!
Dawn Cragg MBE’s talk was titled ‘From Bamboo to Buckingham Palace’.
Based in Retford, Dawn works locally, nationally and internationally as a medical beautician and tattooist. Her well illustrated presentation explained how the methods used have changed over the years and showed before and after examples of the types of work she carries out.
Members heard how she learned tattooing in Hong Kong with a sterilised needle stuck into a piece of bamboo. Clients come for a range of reasons: medical problems, post reconstructive surgery, accidents, skin defects, self-harm and sometimes for vanity.
Dawn showed examples of tattooing eyebrows lost through chemotherapy, nipples tattooed after breast removal, nipples enlarged to make both breasts look equal, patches of hair lost through alopecia tattooed in to give a normal appearance. The use of camouflage make up was shown to cover scars and skin blemishes including birthmarks.
Dawn shared the story of a lady who had not left her home for years because of skin problems. Dawn showed her how special make up could help her overcome her problem and promised that, if she did overcome her fears, go out, find a boyfriend and get married, Dawn would do her wedding make up. It did happen and the before and after photographs were amazing.
There were many questions during and after her presentation and Dawn was very generous with her time. Makeup samples were handed out and Dawn very kindly donated a voucher for two makeup sessions for the raffle. Sue B gave a vote of thanks.
The July speaker was Maggie Watkins whose talk was ‘Pilgrims and Prophets – Mayflower Pilgrims in the New World’. On 15th August Paul Whittaker OBE will tell of his life as ‘The Deaf Singer’.
New members and visitors are always welcome to join monthly meetings. The visitor fee is £5.00; three visits can be made before joining. For more information contact 01777 871567 or 07971 291883.