Textile map threads together stories of North Shields
People in stitches over town’s textile map. Tony Henderson reports
Sixty people have poured their memories and feelings into the creation of a textile map of a Tyneside town.
The map of North Shields, the size of a double bed cover, takes the viewer on a journey from the banks of the Tyne to the Fish Quay and on to the upper town.
The detailed artwork, involving hundreds of hours of work, depicts North Shields people and landmarks, including shops, Old Low Lights tavern, historic and civic buildings to the town centre library, Christ Church, and the Linskill Centre Community Hub.
The project was led by Cullercoats artist Gaynor Devaney as a legacy of the North Shields 800th anniversary celebrations, with people turning up to contribute ideas and stitching sessions across 12 community events.
The map will go on show on December 9 at the Old Low Light heritage centre on the Fish Quay where the community events were held. The project was backed by the National Heritage Lottery Fund.
Gaynor said: “This has been such a lovely project to work on, with so much enthusiasm and dedication by so many people. The artwork reflects people’s memories, their hopes for the town’s future and their interest in and love for the area.
“It is a huge piece. People were asked what they thought of North Shields, what was important to them and what memories they had. I was amazed by how much people put into the project.”
A range of textile techniques were used in the creation of the map, including photoprint, applique, quilting, beadwork, batik, hand painting, different types of collage and traditional embroidery.
“This has been a great community effort, with much sharing of stories, ideas and techniques. I have learned so much about the history of North Shields and understand much better now why people are so attached to this special place,” said Gaynor.
“I’m also grateful to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for providing the funding needed to deliver the community events and buy materials. I hope the map will now attract much interest.”
Heritage centre director Guy Moody said: “It’s been a pleasure working with Gaynor on this amazing project and seeing so many very talented people come together week after week to create such stunning artwork.”
The map will be on display in the centre café until March 28 when it will then move to the Linskill Centre in the town. The Old Low Light Centre is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm.