Sanctuary Beach
The MAERL Stitchers came together to stitch their panel from Mallaig, Arisaig and the surrounding area, as well as inviting special guest stitchers such as refugees from Ukraine, who found sanctuary on the peaceful shores of the Highlands.
This is their story.
'Initially the group came together as strangers with a common interest. We gathered to look at our design, which artist Andrew Crummy delivered, and were somewhat disappointed. We expected one of the dynamic designs which we had seen on other panels but what we were looking at was a sparse piece of cloth with some threads.
We soon understood, however, that we had been given an opportunity to represent our area exactly how we wanted to. We spent hours pouring over colours and stories, individual designs on stones which would come together to populate our beach.
This time of creative collaboration brought us much closer together. It encouraged experimentation and exchange of opinion with no hard feelings! Now, we are strangers no more but friends, supportive of each of our stories as individuals who came together, with help and inspiration from the community, to stitch our Sanctuary Beach.'
Sanctuary Beach PanelImage provided by MAERL Stitchers, Mallaig
The Maerl StitchersImage provided by Smartify
LISTEN TO THE STORIES OF OUR PANEL:
The Tapestry project has helped to bring communities together and even helped some volunteers in their healing journey strengthening physical and mental health. Listen to Jimmy's heartfelt story below and the inspiration for his journey stone.
WITH THANKS TO THE MAERL STITCHERS
This panel was stitched by Morag, Dee, Eileen, Pat, June, Lesley, Glenda, Susan and Jimmy 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.
