Tapestry of Black Britons

Join us at Arnolfini from 9 May 2025 for the Tapestry of Black Britons, a powerful evolving artwork celebrating the rich history and contributions of Black Britons. Curated by Paula Ogun Hector and woven by Bristol-based textile company Dash + Miller, this monumental tapestry echoes the Bayeux Tapestry while incorporating Kente cloth weaving and Caribbean textile traditions.

For its opening stage in Bristol, the exhibition will highlight Black British, Caribbean, and African service people from World War Two, marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Inspired by contemporary portrait artist Yvadney Davis, these 2-metre-wide panels will shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of Black and Asian personnel in the fight for freedom.

As this interdisciplinary project grows, contributions from artists, poets, schools, and communities across Britain and the diaspora will expand the tapestry, creating a collective artwork that uplifts, educates, and preserves Black British history. Featuring works by Adeche Atelier, Zak Ové, and more, the exhibition will also showcase the latest in digital design.

Don’t miss this powerful exploration of over 1,500 years of Black presence in Britain—because Black British history is British history.

You may also like the following events from Arnolfini:

• This Saturday, 7th June, 11:00 am, Como la Cigarra | Latinas in Bristol in Bristol
• This month, 28th June, 10:00 am, Dana Awartani in Bristol
• This October, 18th October, 11:00 am, Emma Talbot in Bristol

Also check out other Arts events in Bristol, Exhibitions in Bristol, Literary Art events in Bristol.