Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands has been two years in making so far
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Passion, dedication and wholehearted enthusiasm are the qualities seen in abundance during the two-year duration of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands project.
Over 600 stitchers volunteered to be part of this community-led project with stitching groups formed across the area including from Badenoch and Strathspey to work on individual panels.
The material used in the panels, largely donated from local businesses, has been stitched together with a range of yarns and resources into the 56 panels of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.
Kirstie Campbell, professional textile artist and stitch co-ordinator for the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands project said: “It is wonderful to experience the dedication, warmth and genuine camaraderie that has been generated through the stitching groups.
"At a time when we all needed to reconnect as we recovered from the impact of the pandemic, the project has really helped to regenerate links and relationships across the area.”
Kate Muir, stitcher on the Calanais Stones panel, Isle of Lewis, said: “There were five of us involved in stitching the panel. It was both a technical and geographical challenge to complete as we work full time and live in different corners of the island.
"We would meet up on Sundays at Lews Castle in Stornoway or in Carloway, as it was often the only day off, we shared.
"We literally put blood, sweat and tears into the panel so, when the time came to hand it over, it was decided I would do it in person.
"On a perfectly calm morning at 5am the journey started with a drive, then ferry crossing from Stornoway to Ullapool, followed by a bus journey to Inverness. Six hours later I arrived at the hub, it was a real hubbub of energy, with lots of women working away.
"Handing over our panel was very emotional but ‘our baby’ had to leave its island home and join its peers! We are excited to see the finished panels on display. A trip all five of us will make together.
"It's been an excellent project, and one we are all very proud to be part of.”
Completed tapestry panels will be exhibited within the newly transformed Inverness Castle when it opens in 2025, as well as within community venues across the Highlands and Islands and online.
The tapestry is being created as part of the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project, a partnership project between Highland Council and High Life Highland, which is being delivered in collaboration with VisitScotland.
The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project will encourage visitors to explore and experience all parts of the region as well as inspiring them to attend and support festivals and events, visitor attractions and outdoor locations across the area.
