Threads Through Creation Exhibition

Wednesday 27 April – Sunday 5 June
‘Threads through Creation’ by Jacqui Parkinson
Spectacular Scenes in Silk Exhibition 

From 27th April to 5th June we will host ‘Threads through Creation’, a breath-taking exhibition of twelve enormous, embroidered silk panels that explore the story of Creation.

Inspired by the first pages of the bible, textile artist Jacqui Parkinson re-imagines an amazing story in brilliant silks, dazzling metallic leathers and gold leaf – and more than eight million stitches!

Displayed on huge panels, some as wide as 4m, Jacqui Parkinson’s work is eye-catching, designed to be attractive for viewers of all ages. Whilst the serious context of God’s good earth and man’s impact on it underlies the entire exhibition, the embroidery itself is bold and exuberant, with many fun details, both accurate and fanciful creatures embroidered into the stories.

‘Threads through Creation’ is just starting a three-year tour to 16 Cathedrals.

Jacqui says: "It’s a pleasure to be visiting Worcester Cathedral, such a wonderful building, where I hope to add a little extra wonder! Creation is a great story and I hope the panels will add a lovely sparkle to everyone’s visit to the Cathedral."

Jacqui uses unusual techniques: “I start with antique bedsheets, which hold their own tales of life and death. I gradually build up my stories by quilting the sheets and painting them. Then I add layers of silk, which I stitch into place using a special free motion sewing machine which allows me to stitch my ‘drawings’. Then I add gold leaf and metallic leathers as finishing touches, overall creating great richness - a feast for the eye.

"My aim is to capture the wonderful extravagance of the Creation story and to delight people who view it. Despite Adam and Eve’s fall from grace, it remains a story of love and promise, something we can all do with these days."