Coming and Going
The Stitching Stitchers came together from across Inverness to stitch the story of their area and the constant movement of our communities.
This is their story.
Although many people view the sea as dividing land from land, the sea has always been a connection for the Highlands and Islands, to each other and to the rest of the world. The waters are a well-travelled route to and from the Highlands and Islands.
From the earliest visitors on simple skiffs and handmade vessels, to the terrifying sound of a Viking long-ship hoving into sight, to nowadays and the more usual Cal Mac ferry trundling along on the waves. There is a story attached to each of these vessels and the people who sailed in them.
Visitors who have come and gone from our islands in centuries past and the people who regularly hop between islands and the mainland now, all get to experience the Highlands and Islands from a unique angle. Travel by boat offers a stunning view of multiple coastlines featuring rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and the squawk of seabirds high over head.
It truly is a brilliant way of coming and going.
Coming and Going in the Highlands and Islands.Image provided by Kirstie Campbell
BEHIND THE PANEL WITH THE STITCHING SISTERS
As a group we looked for a theme relevant to the Spirit of the Highlands to give us stitching inspiration. We thought of 'Coming and Going' which we could represent by a flotilla of the boats that carried people and goods to and from the Highlands over time. The swallows were added as a final touch, acknowledging the movement and migration of animals.
- Tessa McArdle
DISCOVER MORE STORIES FROM OUR GROUP WHICH HAVE BEEN STITCHED INTO OUR JOURNEY STONES
WITH THANKS TO THE STITCHING SISTERS
This panel was stitched by Irene, Elizabeth S, Elizabeth W, Isobel and Tessa who gave their time, skill and energy to completing a fantastic artwork for their area.
If you would like to see the panel up close and admire the detail of their work, please look out for the panel at an exhibition near you soon. To find out more, follow Inverness Castle Experience on Facebook for all the latest updates on the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands and the new visitor experience in Inverness, open 2025.
