Stitched Stories – embroideries with tales to tell

3 August – 2 October 2009
Embroiderers’ Guild
Apt 41 Hampton Court Palace
Surrey, KT8 9AU

Every picture tells a story, and so does every embroidered object in the Embroiderers’ Guild Museum Collection.

Stitched Stories showcases a selection of embroideries gathered from around the world and unravels the fascinating stories captured within them.

This remarkable collection of pictorial embroideries includes 17th century pieces that illustrate scenes from Old and New Testament Bible stories, Indian embroidery depicting episodes from the life of Krishna, and 20th century items that are inspired by legends of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as folklore and nursery rhymes.

Embroideries have many tales to tell – perhaps about the people who stitched them, why they were made, or who they were made for. Embroideries stitched centuries ago hold stories about the individuals and families who have treasured these wonderful objects for generations, and which survive for us today. They provide intriguing records of other lives in other times, just as the embroideries created today capture something of the 21st century for future generations to reflect on.

Admission free
Open Monday –Friday 10 -4.30 (closed bank holidays) – entrance via Reception in Tennis Court Lane, groups are requested to book-in in advance with the Embroiderers’ Guild.

The Embroiderers’ Guild is situated within Hampton Court Palace. Although entrance to the Embroiderers’ Guild is free if you also wish to tour the Palace an admission charge applies and tickets are available from Hampton Court Palace.

Stitched Stories activities programme

Ten Minute Tales - mini talks on selected objects in the show. Drop in sessions on advertised days, for all ages – no charge.

Stitching Station - opportunities to have a go - guided stitching on advertised days – no charge.

What's Your Story - drop in show and tell session on advertised days. Do you have an embroidery that tells a special tale? Individuals are welcome to drop in – or groups can contact the Guild to book a special show and tell session.

A World Treasury of Embroidery – the stories from the Embroiderers’ Guild Museum Collection – talk by Lynn Szygenda Embroiderers’ Guild Deputy/Senior Curator, date to be advertised – purchase tickets

For more information about the display and the activities programme contact

Lynn Szygenda Tel 020 8943 1229 ext 30, lszygenda@embroiderersguild.com or visit www.embroiderersguild.co

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Note to editors for more information and images contact Lynn Szygenda