Threads through Creation – Jacqui Parkinson

Visitors can explore key moments in the Bible told through millions of stitches as the work of textile artist Jacqui Parkinson goes on tour.

Threads through Creation – Jacqui Parkinson

This week Threads through Creation went on display in Truro Cathedral, a stunning exhibition of twelve enormous, embroidered silk panels that explore the story of Creation.

Threads Through Creation has already attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors across England, and this is first time it has gone on display in Cornwall.

Inspired by the poetic verses of Genesis, the first book in the Bible, textile artist Jacqui Parkinson re-imagines this ancient story in a vibrant combination of layers of silk, hand-dyed materials, metallic leathers and gold leaf, miles of thread, and more than eight million stitches.

The Dean of Truro, the Very Revd Simon Robinson said,

“Welcoming Jacqui Parkinson’s incredible exhibition ‘Threads through Creation’ is another first for Cornwall. 

‘This extraordinary exhibition aims to engage the observer with the story of creation found in the book of Genesis. It consists of 12 huge textile panels which tell one of the foundational Christian stories and is in one of the largest textile exhibitions created by a single artist. 

‘I am delighted that, yet again, Truro Cathedral, itself a majestic architectural gem, is bringing such a significant artwork to Cornwall. I hope that every visitor to the cathedral is simply bowled over by this incredible exhibition.”

The panels vary in appearance from powerful, elemental pieces illustrating the first days of Creation to highly complex and lush work as we enter the Garden of Eden.

Jacqui said:

‘My aim is to capture the wonderful extravagance of the Creation story and to delight people who view it. Despite Adam and Eve’s fall from grace, it remains a story of love and promise, something we can all do with these days.

‘It’s a pleasure to have the exhibition in Truro Cathedral, such a lovely, tranquil gem of a building. The creation story itself is a lovely gem in the bible. I hope the panels will add a sparkle to everyone’s visit here,’ she added.

Threads through Creation runs at Truro Cathedral until Sunday 20 August and is available to view during general visiting times. There is no charge for admission to the cathedral, but donations are very much appreciated …

Jacqui Parkinson’s Threads Through the Cross has just opened in Ripon Cathedral and is available until August 4.

This striking exhibition begins with the birth of Jesus and takes visitors on a visual journey through key moments in his life, including the cross, resurrection, and Pentecost.

Following the huge success of Threads through Creation, Sheffield Cathedral is preparing to also welcome Threads through the Cross throughout August and September which tells the dramatic story of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection across eighteen three-metre-high tapestry panels.

Threads through the Cross is on show from August 7 – 22 September with midweek extended hours and the chance to meet the artist too.

Guildford Cathedral will also host Threads through the Cross from 25 September – 3 November

The programme also includes a talk and guided tour of the work with the artist and a hands-on creative workshop with Jacqui too. Booking is essential and the booking window opens on 21 July.

Jacqui Parkinson’s work is just one example of some of the events visitors can discover at our cathedrals this summer.

All our cathedrals have exciting programmes for everyone throughout this summer – from headline exhibitions to family days and arts and crafts – and all are underpinned by the daily rhythm of prayer and worship.

Some of our cathedrals charge entry and there may be a fee at others for specific events, but all our cathedrals are free to enter for prayer, worship or to light a candle.

Do check on the cathedral’s individual website for up-to-date information before you travel.

And don’t forget to share your pictures and tag us #WishYouWereHere – our summer campaign this year.