A breath taking textile art exhibition created with 25million stitches.

A textile exhibition, depicting stories of the Bible, which has taken 10 years to stitch, is on display at Ely Cathedral.
‘Threads through the Bible’ is an astonishing and visually inspiring exhibition of textile art and possibly the largest ever of its kind created by a single person.

This spectacular trilogy of tapestries, known as the ‘Threads through the Bible’ installation is made up of more than 40 panels – standing 3m high. If all the panels were laid out side by side, they’d stretch more than 100 metres.

Having taught drama and set up an arts centre in London, artist Jacqui Parkinson has been fascinated by Bible stories for fifty years and, as a result, has spent the last 10 years creating and sewing these enormous panels in her studio in Devon, using over 25 million stitches.

Speaking about how she works, Jacqui said: “I start simply with antique bedsheets, which hold their own tales of life and death. Then I gradually build up my stories by quilting the sheets and painting them. It’s a pleasure to exhibit ‘Threads through the Bible’ in the magnificent setting of Ely Cathedral. I hope the panels will add a sparkle to everyone’s visit here, adding to the inspiration of such a glorious building.’
With spectacular designs, brilliant colours and extraordinary stitching, the exhibition is highly engaging for all, and great fun for children too. It has already attracted thousands of visitors and, as it is only on display in three venues nationally, is an opportunity, not to be missed.
‘Threads through the Bible’ will be on display at Ely Cathedral from 09 May to 29 June 2025