Acclaimed Chinese art exhibit brings vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations to textile heartland of Scotland
A highly acclaimed textile exhibit celebrating part of China’s intangible cultural heritage will make its UK debut when it goes on display at the Great Tapestry of Scotland!
Article Source: Great Tapestry of Scotland
Last Updated: 20 December 2024 11:54
European first: Acclaimed Chinese art exhibit brings vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations to Scotland’s textile heartland as it makes its UK debut
Never before seen outside of Asia, a highly acclaimed textile exhibit celebrating part of China’s intangible cultural heritage will make its UK debut when it goes on display at a leading Scottish visitor attraction from 17 January until 22 March 2025. Its opening at the award-winning Great Tapestry Scotland visitor centre in one of Scotland’s historic textile heartlands, will be marked with a vibrant programme of events and workshops celebrating the cultural ties between Scotland and China in the lead up to Chinese New Year 2025.
Reflecting the countries’ shared interest in textiles, From Home Weaving to the World’s Wardrobes: The Journey of Songjiang’s Cotton Textiles has been brought to Scotland in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, the Confucius Institute for Scotland and the Edinburgh College of Art. Opening weekend events on 18 January include a Chinese Tea Ceremony, Lion Dance, craft workshops and school trips for pupils at two Lothians’ schools who are currently learning Mandarin thanks to the Confucius Institute for Scotland.
Through a collection of textiles and garments chosen by artist Dong Ye, The Journey of Songjiang’s Cotton Textiles tells the story of an ancient cloth weaving technique which has been preserved for over 700 years in the millennium-old Songjiang district of Shanghai, often referred to as the ‘Root of Shanghai’. Much like Scotland’s iconic fabrics, the Songjiang textiles are widely recognised for their cultural importance to China, with its intricate weaving techniques, beautiful patterns, and ancient historical relevance to the Ming and Yuan Dynasties.
Sandy Maxwell-Forbes, Centre Director for The Great Tapestry of Scotland, one of the most visited attractions in the south of Scotland, said: “We’re thrilled to be the first venue in the UK to host this globally significant exhibit, and to be celebrating China and Scotland’s shared interest in textiles.
“It is incredibly apt that From Home Weaving to the World’s Wardrobes: The Journey of Songjiang’s Cotton Textiles should make its debut at our visitor centre in the Scottish Borders - one of Scotland’s own historic textile heartlands, where traditional methods of production are still used to this day to make garments for leading fashion designers including Dior, Vivienne Westwood, Chanel and more.
“The Great Tapestry of Scotland’s compelling account of the people’s story of Scotland from millions of years BC to present day, hand stitched by over 1,000 people across the country, reinforces how important it is to our nation to preserve our rich textile heritage and pass on the knowledge of these crafts to the next generation. This great passion is mirrored in the incredible Journey of Songjiang’s Cotton Textiles exhibit by artist Dong Ye. We are very excited to welcome him to Scotland.”
Explaining the significance of the exhibit, artist and curator Dong Ye, said (translated from Mandarin): “Songjiang textiles introduced me to the beauty of life. It is the foundation of my artistic expression and reflects the raw power of art to tell the stories of history, heritage and culture. The fabric represents the traditional life of the people of Songjiang and tells their story through time—past, present, and future. Celebrating this intangible heritage is crucial to preserving our cultural identity and revitalising our future through traditional craftsmanship.
“The rapid growth of cities and industrialisation has created friction between the past and the present, endangering the delicate skills of traditional textile production and the natural environment. By embracing the slow fashion movement rooted in these traditions, we can counteract this trend.
“I’m honoured that The Great Tapestry of Scotland has chosen to display the exhibit, so that more people have the chance to connect with the enduring legacy of Songjiang's textile heritage. Most of the textiles featured in my exhibit was woven on Songjiang before the 1960s, with some pieces boasting a history of over 100 years. Even the goods available for sale are crafted from these vintage fabrics, allowing visitors to personally experience the warmth and authenticity of traditional Songjiang textiles for themselves.”
Llinos Jones, General Manager at the Confucius Institute for Scotland added: “We proudly support initiatives that celebrate strong cultural ties between China and Scotland, and highlight the enduring value of traditional Chinese craftsmanship, like the Songjiang textile exhibit. Through showcasing this vibrant textile heritage, we create opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between China and Scotland. Events like these remind us of the importance of preserving traditions while inspiring new generations to embrace sustainable practices and shared values. And it is fantastic that The Great Tapestry of Scotland is hosting such a visually spectacular opening event to celebrate its UK debut.”
In addition to the programme of events and workshops for visitors to enjoy, the Borders Community Rail Partnership has provided funding to support a series of visits for 44 primary school pupils from two schools in Midlothian that have been learning Mandarin thanks to the Confucius Institute for Scotland.
Speaking about what this means to them Miss Erin Murray, a teacher at Moorfoot Primary School in North Middleton, Midlothian said: “The children have absolutely loved learning Mandarin at school this year, and we’re incredibly excited that the Great Tapestry of Scotland, Confucius Institute for Scotland, and the Borders Rail Partnership are giving our pupils the opportunity to learn even more about Chinese culture. This is fantastic way of equipping children with extra skills that are an indispensable part of a diverse, open minded and globally successful society and economy.”
Councillor Euan Jardine, Council Leader at Scottish Borders Council added: “It is brilliant to see that Songjiang textiles will be exhibited for the first time in the UK at The Great Tapestry of Scotland. This important exhibit showcases the rich textile traditions of Songjiang and reinforces the deep cultural connections between Scotland, particularly the Scottish Borders, and China, both renowned for their proud weaving and craftsmanship. Through its programme of workshops, events and school visits, it also supports Scotland’s aim to create opportunities for culture, heritage and creative excellence to flourish.
“Home to one of the world’s largest community arts projects handcrafted by over 1,000 people, situated in the Scottish Borders in the heart of Scotland's historic textile industry, The Great Tapestry of Scotland centre really is the perfect venue for the exhibit’s UK debut. I’m sure the exhibit will inspire all visitors to explore the enduring legacies of both our cultures
“We’re incredibly lucky to have this inspiring cultural hub on our doorstep telling our unique story of Scotland, delivering jobs, making a contribution to our economy and supporting accessibility and wellbeing for everyone in the community.”
Tickets for the exhibit’s special opening celebration on 18 January are now available online. This event will give visitors the chance to hear from Dong Ye and to immerse themselves in Chinese culture. Activities and workshops taking place throughout the day include a Chinese Tea Ceremony, a traditional lion dance, and a Chinese calligraphy workshop. There will also be an opportunity for visitors to weave their very own piece of Songjiang cloth.
The Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre was purpose-built to house one of the world’s longest tapestries, which tells a visually compelling account of the people’s story of Scotland from millions of years BC to present day through 160 panels. Holder of a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award, the centre is ranked in the top 10 per cent of Tripadvisor listings around the world, and is one of the most visited attractions in southern Scotland. It features two galleries, a café, workshop space and shop.
For more information, including opening times and ticket prices, and more information about From Home Weaving to the World’s Wardrobes: The Journey of Songjiang’s Cotton Textiles visit www.greattapestryofscotland.com
Image: Artist and curator Dong Ye
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
The Doddie Weir match ball delivery is voted Greatest Murrayfield Moment
Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery at Murrayfield in 2017 has been voted the greatest moment in the stadium’s 100-year history, after thousands of fans took part in a nationwide poll.
READ MORE
Forth Awards celebrates Amy Macdonald and Wet Wet Wet alongside local heroes
The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, crowned the very best of Edinburgh and the East last night at a star-studded award ceremony.
READ MORE
King Pins, state of the art bowling and activity venue, is set to open its second Scottish site in Edinburgh
King Pins is announcing a new bowling and activity venue opening in Waverley Bridge in Edinburgh in early 2026.
READ MORE
Edinburgh locals get discount at Hard Rock Cafe this November
This November, locals with an EH postcode can enjoy 25% off food and drinks until 5pm, Sunday to Friday, plus 25% off in retail at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh.
READ MORE
Highlight paintings from Buckingham Palace go on display in Scotland
Portraits by Frans Hals, Titian and Parmigianino are among eight of the finest paintings from Buckingham Palace to go on display at the Palace of Holyroodhouse from today.
READ MORE
Roti King crowns Edinburgh with its first Scottish restaurant
Roti King is making its first move outside England, heading north to the foodie capital of Edinburgh.
READ MORE
Luxury kitchen brand unveils fully refurbished Edinburgh showroom
Harvey Jones, specialists in hand-crafted beautifully designed kitchens and luxury furniture for the home, has opened its doors to its newly refurbed Edinburgh showroom.
READ MORE
Much loved classic Scottish play, The Steamie, is set to return to venues in 2026
The Steamie has been scrubbed up ahead of making a return to theatres across the country next year as part of an exciting new chapter in its long-standing story in the theatre landscape.
READ MORE
Medea to tour Scotland in 2026
Bard in the Botanics will be launching their 25th Anniversary year with a Scotland-wide tour of their award-winning version of Medea, by Kathy McKean (after Euripides).
READ MORE
Former courthouse and jail completes multi million pound transformation
Edinburgh-based Code The Court has unveiled a new attic floor of signature boutique hotel rooms, marking a major next step for the landmark venue overlooking the historic Parliament Square.
READ MORE
18 million success for Lost Shore just one year after opening
Lost Shore Surf Resort has firmly established itself as one of Scotland’s most exciting tourism success stories, already generating an £18 million boost to the Scottish economy.
READ MORE
The Ivy on the Square unveils festive set menu for 2025
From traditional Turkey Ballotine to a tangy Tamarind Beetroot & Endive Salad the festive set menu brings the best of festive flavours, reimagined by The Ivy across two or three courses.
READ MORE
The National Galleries of Scotland has acquired The American Dream by Sir Grayson Perry
The National Galleries of Scotland has acquired Sir Grayson Perry’s The American Dream for the people of Scotland.
READ MORE
Christmas Magic Returns to The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh
Step aboard and unwrap the magic of The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh's Port of Leith this Christmas.
READ MORE
Imagine Theatre prepares for an exciting season of pantomimes across Scotland
Imagine Theatre proudly presents a spectacular lineup of family pantomimes across Scotland bursting with laughter, music, sparkle, and dance starring some of Scotland's best-loved entertainers!
READ MORE
Tesco customers in Edinburgh can spread festive joy by gifting toys this Christmas
From today until the 15th of December, Tesco’s Edinburgh Hermiston Gate Superstore is holding a collection for new and unwrapped toys for the Salvation Army’s Toy Appeal.
READ MORE
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh Black Friday Offers
From 5 star stays to chef’s table feasts and afternoon tea with bubbles, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh offers unforgettable experiences at unbeatable value this Black Friday.
READ MORE
Step into the magic at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres has a fantastic line up of Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences, with an exciting North Pole adventure inspired theme, running from 23rd November - 24th December.
READ MORE
Locals urged to get interactive on World Kindness Day
To mark World Kindness Day, the team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) is encouraging more people to show compassion, unity and kindness to others through voluntary work.
READ MORE
Scottish Ensemble announce projects for Spring and Summer 2026
Scottish Ensemble, a pioneering collective of musicians championing music for strings, announces its series of events for Spring/Summer 2026.
READ MORE
Free community energy advice event taking place tomorrow in Edinburgh
Free face-to-face energy support comes to Edinburgh as nearly a third still don’t seek help when struggling with bills.
READ MORE
Wingstop UKI opens first restaurant in Livingston
Monday 10th November : Wingstop UKI, the restaurant brand that doesn’t play when it comes to flavour, today opens its first site in Livingston.
READ MORE
Flight Club Launches BRAND NEW Game Inspired by a Party Classic
This week, Flight Club, the lively cocktail and Social Darts bar, is launching a brand-new game, available to play in all venues for the first time on Friday, 14th November.
READ MORE
Scottish and international traders make Edinburghs Christmas Market sparkle with festive magic
The countdown to this year’s Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions has begun, with the much-loved Christmas Markets in East Princes Street Gardens opening this Saturday 15 November.
READ MORE
Aldi Scotland is turning up the Christmas cheer with its first ever festive Supermarket Sweep
Aldi Scotland is giving one lucky customer the chance to take part in a seasonal edition of its popular shopping challenge, all while raising vital funds for Children's Hospices Across Scotland.
READ MORE
Hidden treasures of Murrayfield
Murrayfield heritage lead Laura Tinch reveals hidden collection of 5,000 artefacts charting a century of Scottish rugby history.
READ MORE
Collective announces 2026 programme
Collective announces an unmissable programme of exhibitions for 2026, spotlighting ambitious new projects by artists who have developed their practice in Scotland.
READ MORE
Rare female cheetah arrives at Edinburgh Zoo
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has welcomed four-year-old female cheetah Domino to Edinburgh Zoo from Zoo de Cerza, France.
READ MORE
Santa clocks in early: Scotland shift heroes among 30,000 invited to claim free festive meal
Greene King pubs is raising the spirits of Scotland's hardest workers this festive season, hosting 'The Big Christmas Shift' across 700 pubs nationwide, giving away 30,000 meals on Monday 1st December
READ MORE
Festive days out to make the most of the season
From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links