Textile Whispers Exhibition
Textile Whispers Exhibition Opens at Forge Mill Needle Museum
Featuring a Season of Specialist Textile Workshops
Forge Mill Needle Museum, Redditch, is pleased to announce the opening of Textile Whispers, a new exhibition running from 1 February to 8 March 2026. Curated by Ruth Parkinson‑Johns and created by alumni and students of IDC College, Bromsgrove, the exhibition brings together an evocative collection of contemporary textile works exploring memory, emotion, and the quiet power of stitch.
Set within the historic backdrop of Forge Mill—once central to the world’s needle‑making industry—Textile Whispers showcases a diverse range of techniques, including hand and machine embroidery, dyeing, fabric manipulation, and mixed‑media textile processes. Each piece responds to the theme of “whispers” through personal narrative, atmospheric surface design, and expressive mark‑making.
Accompanying Workshop Programme
To complement the exhibition, Forge Mill Needle Museum will host a series of hands‑on workshops led by experienced textile practitioners. These sessions offer visitors the opportunity to explore techniques featured in the exhibition and develop their own creative skills.
Mini Summer Meadow Embroidery Workshop – Led by Tony Phillips (The Manbroiderer)
A gentle, nature‑inspired embroidery session introducing participants to expressive stitch techniques. Attendees will create a miniature embroidered meadow using layered textures, simple florals, and accessible hand‑stitch methods suitable for all skill levels.
Butterfly on a Bobbin – Led by Ruth Parkinson‑Johns
A workshop inspired by the museum’s heritage collections. Participants will create a decorative butterfly motif mounted on a traditional wooden bobbin, combining mixed media, stitch, and surface embellishment.
Textile Flower Workshop – Led by Iris Rimes
This session explores sculptural textile techniques, guiding participants through the construction of a three‑dimensional fabric flower. Ideal for those interested in textile art, wearable pieces, or decorative craft.
Textile Brooch Workshop – Led by Susan Gam
A creative workshop focused on designing and assembling a unique textile brooch. Participants will experiment with colour, composition, and embellishment to produce a personalised wearable artwork.
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A Celebration of Creativity and Heritage
The exhibition and workshop programme together highlight Forge Mill Needle Museum’s ongoing commitment to supporting contemporary textile practice while honouring the region’s industrial heritage.
Textile Whispers is open to the public during standard museum hours. Workshop places are limited and early booking is recommended. To book the workshops click here
