Events & Exhibitions
Stitch is International
At Hampton Court Palace
The opening of our next exhibition, Stitch is International, is currently postponed and will open in due course, according to Government guidance and our duty of care to visitors, volunteers and staff. We will be assessing the situation and will update our web page accordingly.
Celebrating stitch around the world, this latest display will feature pieces from the RSN’s unique Textiles Collection.
Showcasing a rich range of embellished objects, the exhibition includes textiles from Europe, Turkey, the Arab world, Indian sub-continent, China, Japan, North and South America. Embroidery is an art form which has been used by people from different times and in many different places, including as expressions of high art, folk art and cultural identity. From Guatemalan Huipil designs and a Japanese kimono to Turkish towels and Indian Goldwork, Stitch is International will be a diverse display of stitches, colours, textures and fashions.
You can watch two Previews here: Part 1 and Part 2
For more information please contact [email protected]
Visiting the Exhibition
There are different Exhibition Tour options to suit all interests. We offer bookable Talk & Tours, Curator’s Tours, Tour & Tasters, Family Workshop and Bespoke Group Tours by appointment.
Tours start from just £16 per person and the Exhibition runs until December 2020. Book now .
The exhibition is in the RSN’s Embroidery Studios at Hampton Court Palace and open on set days, so pre-booking is essential.
Tour & Taster Workshop
View the exhibition and complete your RSN experience with a taster hand embroidery session inspired by the Exhibition itself. Your day will begin with a talk by a member of staff who will share fascinating historical facts and information about the Royal School of Needlework. You’ll then have the chance to view the exquisite pieces of embroidery in the Exhibition. In the afternoon, one of our expert RSN Tutors will introduce you to a variety of embroidery stitches and techniques in your taster class.
Tour & Taster Workshops are non-refundable.
Talk & Tour
Book as an individual or a small group to see one of our beautiful, themed Exhibitions displayed in our Studio. You’ll view a selection of exquisite pieces from our Collection plus outstanding embroideries by some of our talented tutors and students. You’ll also learn about the RSN’s history and our Curator’s inspiration behind the exhibition with a 30 minute presentation by an RSN staff member or tutor. Depending on the confidentiality of commissions in our Embroidery Studio you may have the opportunity to see our stitchers working (likely but not guaranteed).
RSN Talk & Tours are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
If your group consists of more than six people please see Group Tours.
Curator’s Tour
A Curator’s Tour will feature a themed aspect of our Collection in more detail. You’ll enjoy a short lecture by our Chief Executive Dr Susan Kay-Williams as well as the opportunity to view items from the RSN’s extensive Collection. The items are rarely seen by the public so it’s a real exclusive. A must for the embroidery enthusiast.
RSN Curator’s Tours are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Book a Curator’s Tour (£22 per person)
Request a Group Curator’s Tour (From £22 per person)