Stitching Stories from the Past

28th Jul 2026

Create a Textile Artwork Inspired by Workhouse Stories with Artist Poppy Nash

Join textile artist Poppy Nash for a relaxed, drop-in workshop inspired by the lives and stories of people who lived in the workhouse.Discover how fabric can help us tell stories, remember people and imagine voices from the past. Using colourful fabrics, printed archive images, paint, pens, glue and simple stitching, you’ll create your own textile postcard, letter, patch or mini artwork inspired by the everyday experiences of workhouse residents—including Lorina Bulwer’s remarkable embroidered writings.You can take your artwork home or, if you choose, add it to a growing community textile artwork created by visitors throughout the exhibition.You might make:

  • a postcard from a favourite place or an imagined journey
  • a letter to someone in the past or future
  • a colourful abstract textile artwork
  • a message inspired by someone who lived in the workhouse
  • a picture inspired by historic photographs and archive materials
  • a fabric story about kindness, hope, home or belonging

Experiment with cutting, layering, stitching, gluing, drawing and painting to create something that’s uniquely yours. Creative prompts will be available if you’d like inspiration, or you can simply explore the materials in your own way. This is a relaxed, drop-in workshop for all ages. No sewing or art experience is needed, and children are encouraged to create alongside parents, grandparents and carers. Stay for as little or as long as you like.

Admission to the workshop is included in your annual ticket.