Embroidery Through History

Two talks exploring the rich history of English embroidery.

"From Distaff to Digital - 1000 Years (and more) of Decorative Stitching"

As early as the 9th century, English embroidery was both admired and treasured. Only fragments remain, but they evidence the skill of those early embroiderers. Over the centuries since, styles and materials have changed and new techniques have been developed. A thousand years later, embroidery thrives as a vibrant and dynamic art form, drawing on tradition while embracing innovation.

This talk by Dr Penny Hill, Deputy Chair of the Embroiderers’ Guild, examines that progression, from hand-spun threads through to digital embroidery – a sampler of styles and stitches, illustrated primarily using items in the Embroiderers’ Guild’s extensive collection.

"Following Threads - Exploring Embroidery Work Created by Soldiers of the Victorian Age"

Exhibition curator, Prof. Janet Ainley explores a remarkable collection of regimental embroideries created by soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as they occupied the outposts of the British Empire in India and beyond. The collection raises as many questions as answers in this little explored but intriguing chapter of needlework history.

Refreshments will be served.

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