Tapestry of Black Britons at Arnolfini

Tapestry of Black Britons is a multi-participant evolving artwork touring the UK, curated by founder and creative director Paula Ogun Hector and woven by Bristol-based textile company Dash + Miller. Tapestry of Black Britons aims to elevate Black British History, contributing to and amplifying an inclusive historical narrative that serves as a platform for community remembrance, whilst building awareness that Black British history is British history.

This woven artwork explores the African and Caribbean contribution to Britain from the Romans onwards, echoing the Bayeux Tapestry and incorporating Kente cloth weaving and Caribbean textiles. Individual woven panels will be uniquely created in the style of an artist, featuring portraits, seminal historical moments, protest, joy, African deities and diasporic poetic imagery. This work addresses gaps in British history, drawing attention to more than 1,500 years of Black presence.

Image: East African Pioneers (1943) on the loom Credit: Imperial War Museum (K 5145(A). Photo credit: Dash + Miller. Designed by Paula Ogun Hector