Earth Threads challenge showcases British Tapestry Group at Hampshire Silk Mill

EARTH Threads, an exhibition of contemporary weft-faced woven tapestries, tours to Whitchurch Silk Mill from September 9 to November 28.

It is the sixth biennial exhibition of the British Tapestry Group (BTG) South East Region.

All members of the South East Region were invited to submit a woven tapestry to this exhibition. Earth Threads showcases and celebrates these vibrant and original tapestries from weavers of all levels of experience.

The theme was chosen to be both broad and inspiring. The natural world provides a great source of visual beauty and variety which we can celebrate.

It is also challenged by climate change, pollution, and the loss of biodiversity. The theme leads to many different viewpoints and each weaver interprets the theme in their own way.

As a medium, woven tapestry provides an extensive toolbox of materials and techniques. Natural materials such as silk, nettle, linen, cotton and wool are available in many different colours and thicknesses.

Recycled or reclaimed items and other materials such as paper, wire, fishing line and lurex can also be used. These materials can both surprise and challenge the viewer.

The exhibition aims to excite and educate the weaver and the visitor to what is achievable in woven tapestry using original designs, colours, materials, and techniques.

Woven tapestries can be both beautiful and thought-provoking, expressing the direct beauty of nature or the challenges of climate change. This exhibition is a showcase of diverse and original tapestry weavings that respect the heritage and traditions of tapestry weaving and celebrate the joy of weaving to the theme of Earth Threads.

For more information on the British Tapestry Group South East Exhibition Team, visit www.thebritishtapestrygroup.co.uk or Whitchurch Silk Mill www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Whitchurch Silk Mill visitor experience manager Louise Mackay says: “It’s an absolute pleasure to be able to display such wonderful woven tapestries from the very skilled British Tapestry Group, South East.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to the exhibition, which is included in the entry tickets for our working heritage Silk Mill in Whitchurch, Hampshire.”