Wells Cathedral is set to showcase a remarkable four-metre tapestry that pays tribute to the Black British, Caribbean, and African service personnel who contributed valiantly during World War II. The tapestry, titled Tapestry of Black Britons, will be on display throughout November as part of the cathedral’s commemorations marking 80 years since the end of the war.
Created by Bristol-based textile studio Dash and Miller and led by artist Paula Ogun Hector, the tapestry draws inspiration from the historic Bayeux Tapestry as well as traditional African weaving techniques. Through its intricate design, the artwork highlights often-overlooked stories, aiming to deepen understanding of Britain’s diverse heritage.
Paula Ogun Hector commented, “The Tapestry of Black Britons exhibition at Wells Cathedral sheds light on inclusive British history, honoring the contributions of African-descended peoples during World War II as we mark its 80th anniversary. This evolving piece celebrates the African diaspora’s impact on British culture, society, and politics, reminding us that from many threads, we are one fabric.” The project received public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
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Running from Tuesday, November 4 to Saturday, November 29, the tapestry exhibition is part of a wider series of Remembrance events at Wells Cathedral. The schedule begins with the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance on Saturday, November 1, followed by a Remembrance Sunday Eucharist, a special concert featuring the Wells Cathedral Choir and the Wells Cathedral School Chamber Choir, and a memorial service at the cathedral’s war memorial.
Additional activities include a talk on Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie’s time spent in Bath and Wells during the war, and a creative workshop exploring the stories behind the figures portrayed in the tapestry.
For more information about the exhibition and the full programme of commemorative events, please visit www.wellscathedral.org.uk.