The Covid Chronicle was conceived and curated by London artist Wendy Bliss, and has been described as a ‘Bayeux Tapestry’ for the 21st century pandemic.
It is a historic document in textiles and stitch, and charts first-hand the experiences of people during the pandemic itself.
During lockdown, Wendy set out to reach textile artists around the world through social media, and was delighted to receive 140 incredible panels from 15 countries by the end of 2021.
In 2022 Wendy set about curating the panels for shape and colour and, with the help of sewing friends, stitched and lined them into 35 metre-square blocks.
The Covid Chronicle is now on tour, exhibiting in museums and galleries around the UK, whilst a permanent home for the work is sought.
Wendy Bliss said, “I have been overwhelmed by the response to this project, and the beauty and poignancy of the pieces received. Spontaneous comments from the artists demonstrate how curative the making process has been for them, and my hope it is will similarly help those who see it to process their own experiences through this amazing visual record.”
Naomi Adams, a contributing artist, said, “Literally stitching my own piece to that of others seemed like a perfect antidote to the disconnect I felt.”
The Covid Chronicle is on from Thursday 10 November – Saturday 17 December at the Williamson Art Gallery, Slatey Road, Birkenhead
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