Natural world inspires new West Lothian exhibition and events
Weaving from across the world that demonstrates the beauty and power of nature is the focus of a superb new free exhibition at Linlithgow Burgh Halls.
The Natural World - In Carpets and Rugs features a variety of hand-woven textiles featuring plants, Animals and the natural environment as inspiration for tribal, village and city weavings from Iran to Afghanistan.
Weaving is among the oldest of all human crafts, and was once an important industry in West Lothian towns, such as Bathgate and Whitburn.
On display at The Gallery at Linlithgow Burgh Halls from Friday 25 October until Sunday 26 January 2025 will be various knotted rugs, flat weaves known as kilims and a remarkable and rare nomadic reed screen.
The event has been curated by Andrew Haughton from Edinburgh-based ethical trader The Nomad's Tent, who specialise in working with artisans across the world.
For more information on The Natural World - In Carpets and Rugs exhibition, including opening hours, please visit Home
A number of events are taking place connected to the exhibition over the next few months. Booking is essential for all three events to please email: burgh.halls@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window) or call 01506 282720 to reserve your place.
A Garden of Stories - a Storytellers Afternoon with Beth Cross takes place on Sunday 17 November, from 11am to 3pm. The free live storytelling event draws on the oral culture of the Ottoman Empire in the tradition of the Tales of the 1001 Nights. It is being run in partnership with the Scottish International Storytelling Festival (SISF) 2024 and has four sessions running throughout the day that are open to all to attend one or all of the sessions.
Nomads Tent curator Andrew Haughton will give a free gallery talk on Thursday 5 December, 6:30-8pm. Andrew will explore some of the origins of imagery found in carpets and rugs from depictions of the garden of Eden to the great Persian Paradise Gardens, to hunting Carpets and simple tribal Shepherds' sleeping mats.
A beginner's workshop on Weaving Craft for adults will take place on Saturday 7 December, 10am - 2pm. The event is led by Marie Henderson, who will teach those attending how to weave a versatile band. All materials will be provided and the cost is £20 per person.
