quaker tapestry & exhibition centre, silver award winner 2009...

The Quaker Tapestry has its permanent home in Kendal's historic Friends Meeting House (1816) which is in a prominent position in the centre of this attractive market town. The Tapestry celebrates the ideas and experiences of Quakers since the Religious Society began in 1652 in Swarthmoor Hall, near Kendal. 

The Quaker Tapestry is quite unlike any other contemporary embroidery in its style, scope, content, method of execution and consequent effect on many of those who took part. The vision and enthusiasm sprang from the grass roots; it was not directed as for a commissioned work. The Quaker Tapestry uses a new embroidery style and technique which enables both skilled and unskilled workers to cooperate.

The Quaker Tapestry attracts a wide range of visitors from across the world. The judges were impressed by the variety and quality of techniques used to give information to their visitors. Particularly innovative is the Tapestry ‘on tour' where panels are exhibited in other major cities, helping to media coverage and encouraging visitors to then visit the full exhibition in Kendal. Friendly and knowledgeable staff and an award winning tea room make this an enjoyable day out.