Help stitch history: Contribute to Leeds’ new threads of freedom tapestry

This new piece will reflect the voices and creativity of Leeds communities, exploring what freedom means today - 80 years after the end of the Second World War. Everyone is welcome to take part in this meaningful opportunity to contribute to a permanent work of community art. 

A series of free workshops are taking place across Leeds during September and October, offering different ways to engage with the campaign. The Storytelling with Fabric and Thread workshops, led by artists Hayley Mills-Styles and Elnaz Yazdani, will guide participants in creating embroidered, patchworked, and embellished textile pieces inspired by Leeds’ history and photographic archives.  

Also part of the Threads of Freedom programme are three Make Do & Mend sessions. Skill Share in the Art Library will see a group of artists share traditional textile repair techniques, whilst artist Lorna Johnston will deliver sessions on woven and honeycomb darning. These sessions have proven very popular, but those interested can join the waiting list.  

The final tapestry will include a selection of artwork produced during the project. These workshops are being held at locations including Leeds Central Library, Moor Allerton Library, Seacroft Community Hub, Yeadon Library, and Armley Library. 

Please visit TicketSource for full details of all events and to book your place. 

The project will conclude with a celebration at Leeds Central Library for those who have participated, co-created with artists and community groups. 

Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “Threads of Freedom is a wonderful example of how creativity can bring communities together to reflect on our shared past and imagine a better future. I’m proud that Leeds is contributing to this national tapestry of voices, and I hope many people will feel inspired to take part in a way that reflects the spirit of our city.” 

Future Arts Centres, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Leeds Libraries as part of the national Our Freedom: Then and Now programme. The Threads of Freedom project beautifully captures the spirit of Leeds - creative, collaborative, and deeply connected to its communities. It’s inspiring to see local voices shaping a new tapestry that reflects both the city’s rich history and its hopes for the future. We can’t wait to see what emerges from this vibrant partnership.” 

Emma Hayton, Art Librarian, said: “It’s so wonderful to be able to work with the people of Leeds to add an updated companion piece to the already much-loved Leeds Tapestry. We’ve been spending time with different community groups looking at our collections together, and the city-wide programme is shaping up nicely. Come along to one of our events in Leeds Central Library and get involved!”  

About the Project 

The Leeds Libraries project is one of 60 community-led commissions across the UK forming part of Our Freedom: Then and Now, a national programme supported by Arts Council England. The campaign commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day by inviting communities to reflect on the past and reimagine the future through creativity. 

More information about Our Freedom: Then and Now can be found at https://ourfreedom.org.uk/  

About Future Arts Centres 

Future Arts Centres (FAC) is a national network of over 170 arts centres across the UK. FAC champions the role of arts centres as vital public spaces that foster creativity, community, and cultural expression. In 2023, FAC became a registered company and an Arts Council England IPSO, providing sector support and leadership. 

About Our Freedom: Then and Now 

Our Freedom: Then and Now, is part of a £2 million national creative programme marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Supported by the UK Government through Arts Council England, the Future Arts Centres and Libraries Connected initiative will see 60 arts centres and libraries across Britain present community-led projects exploring the legacy of VE Day and VJ Day. 

Our Freedom: Then and Now empowers artists, veterans and residents to explore themes of past and present freedoms through 60 creative projects, including exhibitions, performances and installations running from June to November 2025. 

ENDS