ISLANDERS are being invited to help recreate one of Europe’s most famous historical artworks as part of a new community project.
Jersey Heritage has announced plans to produce a local version of the Bayeux Tapestry, with members of the public encouraged to take part in stitching the ambitious piece.
The initiative forms part of preparations for the ‘2027 Year of the Normans’, marking 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror.
The finished tapestry will tell stories from Jersey’s Norman past and is expected to go on display at the Jersey Museum.
The original tapestry, housed in France, spans 70 metres and dates back to the 11th century, depicting the Norman conquest of England.
Jersey’s version will be smaller, made up of nine panels totalling more than seven metres, and created in a similar style using traditional wool and linen.
Islanders who sign up will be taught medieval stitching techniques before contributing to the panels through organised workshops.
The project will also involve schools, with primary pupils designing mythical creatures for decorative borders and secondary students bringing those designs to life in thread.
The two-year initiative is being led by outreach curator Melissa Rodrigues, who said the project is intended to bring the community together while exploring the Island’s medieval heritage.
“This is first and foremost a community project and we hope it brings together people from across Jersey to connect with our medieval history.
“Any level of stitching skill is welcome, from those who are accomplished to people who have never stitched before but would like to learn something new.”
Research for the tapestry’s scenes has been led by Jersey Heritage’s head of programmes, Vic Tanner Davy, alongside local historian Jean Treleven, with artwork developed by local artist Jo Preston.
The panels will also incorporate the Island’s native language, Jèrriais.
A particular focus of the Jersey interpretation will be the role of women in medieval society.
While the original Bayeux Tapestry features only a handful of female figures, the local version will highlight both prominent historical figures and the lives of ordinary Island women between 933 and 1259.
Among those represented will be Emma of Normandy and Eleanor of Provence, alongside lesser-known figures whose stories have often gone untold.
Mr Tanner Davy said the project aims to broaden understanding of the period.
“We hope our Jersey version will strengthen our understanding of the role played by women in Jersey’s medieval heritage, while also sharing the significance to the Island of the events of 1066,” he said.
Volunteers have already begun learning the specialist stitching techniques required, and expert embroiderers from Bayeux are due to visit the Island next month to share their skills.
Further details of community workshops are expected to be released in the coming months.
