The Leeds Tapestries were created between 1992-2002, as a community arts project to celebrate the Millennium. The 16 tapestry panels remain very popular with visitors to Central Library, where they are displayed on the First Floor by the Art Library.

To mark the 400th anniversary of the Leeds Town Charter in 2026, Leeds Libraries aims to refresh the Tapestry through a new panel celebrating the diversity of the city today.

This commissioned work would belong to Leeds City Council for display alongside the existing tapestries.

Background:

The original project was devised by Kate Russell, a local community artist to create a rich tapestry of Leeds life, involving all different sectors of the city. The 16 panels, sewn by dedicated volunteers are themed, with content including education, health, transport, industry etc. See this Secret Library blog post for more information. 

Context:

We would like a new tapestry panel to be both a stunning, celebratory visual representation of the different identities and narratives of Leeds and a contemporary artwork for future generations of visitors. 

Exploring connection, empowerment, and pride within Leeds communities, the new panel will include architectural landmarks of the last 25 years as well as representing changes in the cultural landscape and communities across the city.

We are also particularly interested in sustainability themes and exploration of naturally dyed textiles. 

Requirements:

We invite proposals from talented artist(s), collectives, or organisations with strong links to Leeds to lead on a project proposal and funding bid. We are seeking evidence of: 

The chosen artist will be commissioned for a fee of £1000 to cover: 

The funding bid made to Arts Council England would include a fee for the artist to create the new tapestry via community workshops. If the bid is successful, the artist would then: 

Timeline:

• The panel will be unveiled in 2026.
• The funding bid should be submitted by 1st October 2024. 
• If successful, this will be followed by research and planning in early 2025, with consultation, training and skill building workshops in spring/summer 2025.
• Supervision of the individual components and assembling/ completion of panel in autumn/winter 2025. 
• Production of a catalogue or engagement material and additional workshop embroidery programmes should take place in 2026. 

 
Budget and resources: To support the funding bid, Leeds Libraries will offer a fee of £1000. 

The artist will have librarian research support and unlimited access to library collections during the research phase. Our experienced team will offer feedback and guidance on the draft bid.   

Submission Guidelines:

Submit your proposal highlighting relevant experience, previous funding bids, and estimated project budget and timescales. Include a maximum of 15 images of relevant past work. 

Criteria for assessment:  

As a public sector authority, value for money is paramount. We, therefore, welcome quotes which can demonstrate excellent value for money.  

Please note that, under Leeds City Council’s procurement regulations, all tender assessments are weighted at 60% for value for money, so please consider this carefully when submitting your tender.