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It has been argued that after the Renaissance tapestries began to imitate paintings, and the inherent qualities that made medieval tapestries a unique art form became diluted. I travelled to France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany and New York to study medieval tapestries as a Churchill Fellow to better understand what those inherent qualities and techniques were. This exhibition charts the growing influence of that research on my practice. It demonstrates my growing acceptance and appreciation for the true nature and limitations of the medium and an ever growing reliance on medieval technique and the increasing use of symbolism as a tool in the storytelling which is what motivates me as a weaver and artist.

 

This exhibition was initially planned for 2020 but inevitably was postponed because of Covid. The impact of the pandemic is evident in the later tapestries on show. Most of my earlier tapestries looked to family history for storytelling inspiration, but during lockdown I developed the means to look inward for stories. They are highly personal and introspective, but I hope they have resonance with others.

 

Tapestries take months to weave and demand considerable wall space and this is the first time I will see my work to date hanging together. Tapestries have a long association with Cathedrals. Seeing my work, so inspired by the work of medieval weavers, in this medieval environment is a real privilege

 

The exhibition runs 28th April – 25 May 2022. And is one of many events celebrating the 1350th anniversary of the Cathedral’s founding. Details are available on their website. The exhibition is free to enter and is open 7 days a week.

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