Tapestry of Black Britons
Black British history is British history
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
Welcome to the temporary holding page for Tapestry of Black Britons. We are creating a 6 metre + woven artwork exploring the African Caribbean contribution to Britain from Romans onward, echoing the Bayeux Tapestry and Akan woven technique. Imagery incl: portraits, seminal historical moments, protest, joy, African deities and diasporic poetic imagery. It addresses gaps in Black British history awareness with most unaware of over 1,500 years of Black presence.
The Right Hon Lord Boateng CVO Chancellor University of Greenwich and Co-Chair Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission says:
“This innovative and imaginative project a modern interpretation of both the Bayeux and Akan woven commemorative traditions will provide a valuable educational resource for generations to come. Representing as it does the rich tapestry of African diaspora contributions to the cultural political and socio economic life of Britain which are now woven into the very fabric of this nation.”
Weaving the Threads of History
Editing in stories that have been left out of British history
This new tapestry will be able to tour indefinitely and also be enjoyed online with learning resources. As an interdisciplinary work it will shine a spotlight on creatives working in a variety of mediums from sculpture and fine art to textile artists, weavers and poets. It will also serve as a community remembrance platform, allowing unique details to be added over time to both the woven and digital versions.
By elevating Black British history through a cultural artifact, the Tapestry of Black Britons helps to amplify an inclusive historical narrative and build awareness that Black British history is British history.
We believe in the power of storytelling to uplift and transform communities. Through this woven art work we strive to foster a deeper understanding of our collective history.
45
Artworks Created
7
Exhibition venues confirmed
3
School Workshops
Inspired by poetry
John Agard's cri de coeur 'Checkin Out Me History'; Grace Nichols beautiful 'Hurricane Came to England' referencing African deities Oyo and Shango and national treasure Benjamin Zephaniah's 'The British' are some of the key inspirational poems embedded in this new tapestry.
Touring programme
Tapestry of Black Britons will tour a variety of exhibition venues around Britain from 2025 onwards in order to celebrate individuals, commemorate the past, and unite communities in honouring our shared history.
Collaborative Process
Through collaborations with creatives, pupils and local organisations around Britain this new tapestry will be created and evolve.
Interactive Experiences
A journey through history that invites participation and reflection on the African and Caribbean contribution to Britain. More details to come...
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