Caithness stitchers receive first tapestry panels of 2023

Issued by High Life Highland

The first panels of the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands Tapestry of 2023 were handed over to six stitching groups from the area at the Ross Institute in Halkirk this week.

The tapestry is being created as part of the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project, a partnership project between The Highland Council and High Life Highland, which is being delivered in collaboration with VisitScotland. 

Those following the story of this community arts-based project will be keen to know that stitching is well under way for over half of the 52 panels that are being hand-stitched by 650 volunteer community stitchers. 

Completed tapestry panels will be exhibited within the newly transformed Inverness Castle, opening in 2025, and at venues across the Highlands and Islands. 

Cllr Ron Gunn, Chair of the Highland Council Caithness Committee, said:

“Watching the enjoyment of the stitchers receiving their panel was something to behold. Many of the stitchers were meeting for the first time and you could see the new friendships that had been made thanks to this project.  The tapestry project will be a fantastic display of community stories that will encourage visitors to explore the unique culture and heritage of the Highlands and Islands.  I am looking forward to seeing it develop and being showcased in the communities that have created them.”

Kirstie Campbell, Stitch Coordinator for the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands Tapestry, said:

“Meeting with the groups in Caithness has been a fantastic way to start the year.  There was so much enthusiasm to get stitching!  We are looking forward to handing over the remaining panels over the next few weeks!”

The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project will encourage visitors to explore and experience all parts of the Highlands and Islands, as well as inspiring them to attend and support festivals and events, visitor attractions and outdoor locations across the area.

The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project is supported by a grant from the Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund (NCHF), led by NatureScot and funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project is part of the Inverness Castle project. The Castle, opening in 2025, will benefit from £30m investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK Governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and a range of other partners.    

The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal, which is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.

Cllr Ron Gunn (centre), with stitching groups from Caithness. Credit: Spirit of the Highlands and Islands/Angus Mackay Photography