If you live near Monterey or have visited the area during the holidays, no doubt you noticed the primitive angels that grace the entrance way light poles and the buildings in the historical district of Monterey. In 1956, Erica Barton Haba was commissioned by the City of Monterey to create these interesting and sometimes controversial celestial beings. City employees cut 88 angelic shapes out of marine plywood and base coated these pieces in white. Then Erica was set up in an abandoned warehouse in the cannery area where she transformed these shapes into pieces reflective of mission art. She was paid $12 for each angel she created.

By 1970, the elements had taken their toll on these heavenly beings and a volunteer committee was formed. This group called itself the Friends of the Angels and it organized a public auction of some of the angels in order to fund a full restoration of the most promising of the collection. The angels sold for less than $100 each.

In 1999, the retired angel painter was again commissioned to refresh the heavenly artifacts with some new additions. Erica Barton Haba (Franke) is now in her 80's and lives on the east coast but she agreed to the commission. Interestingly the artist also decided to respond to the criticism of the somber visages by including some blond and smiling members of the Monterey choir. Perhaps Erica herself felt a bit more appreciated since she was paid $500 for each new addition.

Stitches is proud to announce that we have been given exclusive permission by Erica to transform her artwork into needlepoint. Now, because of the artist's generosity, the Monterey Angels can grace your home with their whimsy and historical significance. Once every two months Stitches will present a Saturday needlepoint workshop featuring a different hand-painted angel. In the workshop, June McKnight will present interesting threads, dynamic stitches and challenging needlepoint techniques. Each eight-inch tall angel will be worked on eighteen-mesh canvas so that the amazing historical detail can be captured. When the stitching is completed, the heavenly figure can be transformed into a standing weighted angel or can be made into an ornament to grace your holiday tree or garland.

If you are unable to attend the workshop, the hand-painted angel canvas, threads and directions will be available as an exclusive kit from Stitches. Join in this historical adventure and create the most wonderful and blessed addition to your holiday home.

Monterey Angel Workshops

Check back soon for class information!

Angel Canvas, Threads and Instructional Materials $125