Wednesday 17 April 2019

The Scottish Diaspora Tapestry




On the cool bright Spring morning of 17th April, a group of some 30 members of FoGM boarded a coach in central Glasgow for a day trip to New Lanark World Heritage Site.
We were transported to the centre of New Lanark where we were informed of the arrangements which had been made for the visit with the principal options of   taking part in either a guided tour of the complex that included time to visit the Scottish Diaspora Tapestry or spending most of the available time in the exhibition hall looking at the Tapestry.
Regardless of which option taken, we were able to admire the site and its facilities on the banks of the River Clyde. However, there was something special about the Tapestry with its 305 panels that told the tales to Scotland. This wording might seem at first reading to be unusual but this is not the case if one remembers that the panels describe and detail events associated with  individuals or groups of Scots who migrated with determination and courage far and wide  throughout the world in search of adventure and a new life. Displayed by continent, the panels were  easily viewed and adequately lit so  it was very easy to become absorbed in the artistry of their design, the skill of the embroiders and to access the associated  captions by means of  the  Scottish Diaspora Tapestry App. A great example of the juxtaposition of the old and the new!  Added bonuses   were the displays of embroidery 'postcards' by the Scottish branches of the Embroiderers Guild for   the participating countries in the 2012 London Olympic Games and a display by the Biggar and District Embroiders' Guild in celebration of its 40th year anniversary.
Perhaps not unexpectedly the day passed quickly and it was time to return before visiting and viewing had been completed. Many thanks to those who organised the outing and especially to Anne Robertson for her stories and attention to detail for a most memorable day.