Tapestry of Black Britons

Before you visit, check changes to opening times and FAQs for UWE Graduations from 13-23 July. More info

This event has passed

A person looking at a black and white woven tapestry. The tapestry depicts 60 Black service personnel and civilians in WW2.

Tapestry of Black Britons is a powerful new exhibition and living artwork that rewrites British history to reflect the stories that have always been part of it.

Founded by Paula Ogun Hector, the project brings together artists, schools, and communities across the UK to honour the historic and ongoing contributions of people of African descent – from Roman Britain to the present day.

The exhibition features woven panels created in Bristol by Dash + Miller, as well as a striking four-metre World War II tapestry depicting over 60 Black service personnel and civilians, newly embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework with the support of the Company of Gold & Silver Wyre Drawers. The exhibition also features a commissioned tapestry designed by artists Adwoa Botchey and Solomon Adebiyi of Adeche Atelier. Drawing on African mythology and folklore, their design brings to life a Yoruba creation story, inviting audiences to connect with diverse ancient narratives.

A celebration of identity, creativity and truth, Tapestry of Black Britons invites everyone to see British history anew – interwoven, inclusive, and shared.

You can find out more about Tapestry of Black Britons below.

More info

Presented by Tapestry of Black Britons & Bristol Beacon

Price: Free
Ages: All ages

Exhibition times

Start: 10.00
Finish: 18.00

This exhibition will remain open in the evening when there are events taking place

There will be a Meet The Curator opportunity from 3pm – 4pm on Mon 3 Nov to close the exhibition

The venue

Bridgehouse

at Bristol Beacon

Our foyer space located within Bristol Beacon where we host events, performances and conferences.

Getting to the venue

Location: Bridgehouse is located within Bristol Beacon with entrances on Colston Street and Trenchard Street.

Address: Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR

Bicycle

Bicycle racks can be found in front of the main entrance on Trenchard Street, Colston Street, and on the city centre promenade. Find your nearest cycle routes using Cycle Planner.

Car parking

Trenchard Street multi-storey car park is 50m away directly behind Bristol Beacon.

Bristol Clean Air Zone

Bristol Beacon is inside the Bristol Clean Air Zone. Check if your vehicle will be charged and how much you’ll have to pay.

Bus

The city centre bus stop is 250m from Bristol Beacon where most bus services stop.

View detailed travel information

Access

Mobility

Bridgehouse has level access from street level with lifts to all levels. For unallocated seated performances, seats can easily be removed to accommodate wheelchairs.

Assistance Dogs

Registered assistance dogs and emotional support animals are allowed in the venue.

Hearing Facility

There is an induction loop at the box office. You can use this by adjusting your hearing aid to the ‘T’ setting. There is no hearing loop facility for the foyer stage.

View detailed access information