Learn more about the Tapestry

The Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands brought together stitchers from across the region, from Arran and Cumbrae all the way up to Orkney and Shetland, in a colossal effort to stitch stories into a living tapestry.

Communities were asked what the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands was and over 600 stitchers have responded. Each of the panels has a sense of being built, of bringing together many elements of an answer. The makers of the tapestry have all stitched the stories of the past into the present.

The design and narrative of panels was inspired by communities of the Highlands and Islands and expertly woven into images and words by artist Andrew Crummy MBE and historian Alistair Moffat. From design, to stitching and display, the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands is truly a visual representation of the special stories which represent life in the region.

The stitchers were led in their work by professional textile artist Kirstie Campbell. Kirstie co-ordinated the embroidery work on panels through workshops, both online and in person, giving her expertise in techniques and input to design choices. Kirstie and Andrew also sourced local materials for the panels giving them a truly unique Highland flavour.

Volunteers also helped Kirstie to package and send out resources to each stitching group and many created their own yarn too!

The Tapestry truly brought together people from all over the Highlands and Islands in a shared enterprise to create a culturally significant artwork for the region bursting with stories.

Hard at work stitching the threads of the regions.
Image provided by Thimbelinas

Yarn reflected Highland colours and crafters.
Image provided by Steven Gourlay

Councillor Ian Brown and Councillor Biz Campbell try their hand at a few stitches. (Credit: Paul Campbell)

The Tapestry invited stitching from all ages! (Credit: Paul Campbell)

Tweed Samples at a Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands Workshop in Kingussie (Credit: Paul Campbell)

Admiring the wonderful work of stitching groups. (Credit: Paul Campbell)

Beautifully Spun Cords at a Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands Workshop (Credit: Paul Campbell)

Stitchers Gather at a Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands Workshop in Inverness (Credit: Paul Campbell)

Julie, Norma and Anne, three of The Spirited Stitchers, with designer Andrew Crummy (centre) and Stitch Coordinator Kirstie Campbell (right) (Credit: Paul Campbell)

The Tapestry captures what the spirit of the Highlands and Islands is to those who know it best. It is a wonderful mix of well-known historical stories and personal stories of family, place and experience.

The experience of the stitchers of the tapestry have been captured in interviews and in film as a permanent record of the amazing efforts of volunteers across the region in creating a phenomenal representation of the special place they call home.