Threads of Survival continues a proud tradition of quilting and tapestry-making that documents important historical and political moments in quilts and other textile media. At its core, the exhibition is a powerful display of social and political statements about COVID-19, the pandemic, our lives and threats to our NHS.
Originally, the project began with a small team of volunteers from 999 Call for the NHS – campaigners passionate about making sure healthcare is available to all – regardless of ability to pay. They were searching for a new ways to raise the level of awareness about the corporate attack on the NHS when the pandemic struck, quilting became a creative way of engaging with the public about threats to the NHS. Over 100 people were involved with quilts coming from all over the country.
Following in the tradition of the Arperillas from Chile in the 1960s and the emotionally powerful AIDS quilt that emerged in the 80’s, Threads of Survival weaves personal experiences, and family stories with social and political commentary about a moment of history we have and are still going through.
The exhibition features a selection of quilts made locally, including the Ilfracombe Community Quilt, For the Love of Scrubs and the National Quilt.
