Threads through the Bible
25 million stitches celebrating Gods love at a new textile art exhibition for 2025
Textile artist Jacqui Parkinson has spent ten years – and used 25 million stitches – on this project. Her aim is to share Jesus and bring the Bible closer to people, whatever their age or background.
Jacqui’s work is promoted by New Creations, which has recently become a Charity and Network in Association with CTE.
Threads through the Bible consists of 44 beautiful silk panels in three parts: Threads through Creation re-imagining the story of creation from Genesis; Threads through the Cross looking at key moments in the New Testament; and Threads through Revelation reimagining the visions in Revelation. The panels are huge (nearly 3m high) and made out of a combination of silks, paint, metallic leathers and gold leaf. It is the first time that all three parts have been shown together.
The exhibition will tour English Cathedrals over the next couple of years and has just opened in Liverpool Anglican Cathedral (until 3 March). It then moves to Southwell Minster from 6 March to 5 May. And on to Ely Cathedral from 9 May to 30 June.
Consultant to New Creations Andrew Parkinson (who is also Jacqui’s husband) says: ” A visit to the exhibition is a good opportunity for faith-affirming and sharing. We know that many local Churches Together groups have enjoyed a great day out visiting one of our exhibitions and have used the experience as an inspiration for shared reflection and prayer. Host cathedrals can often provide facilities and guides for groups.
“Threads through the Bible brings Genesis, the gospels and Revelation together in a series of 44 huge panels that people of all backgrounds and ages find both breathtaking and inspiring.”
Jacqui’s exhibitions are usually shown in Anglican cathedrals and abbeys, as they require a great deal of space, but some have also been hosted in Methodist and Baptist churches.