STARS, Stitch and Textile Art in Suffolk, present St Edmundsbury Cathedral with embroidery artwork

A creative group has stitched an embroidered work of art of a town’s cathedral which is now on display for the public to enjoy.

The piece, titled Cathedral Squares Embroidery, was produced by STARS, Stitch and Textile Art in Suffolk, and was created from a photograph of St Edmundsbury Cathedral taken by group member, Jean Hurlock.

The photo was enlarged to 35" by 25" and divided into 5" squares with each section being stitched by STARS members and put together to create the final artwork which is on display at the Tourist Information Point on Angel Hill.

Sarah Friswell, visitor experience manager at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to display the STARS embroidery in the Tourist Information Point.

“We wanted the public to be able to see this artwork which reflects community and creativity. Please do pop in and view it if you’re passing.”

The artwork initially began in 2019 to mark the Abbey 1000 celebrations — however, the project faced delays due to the pandemic, as group meetings were put on hold.

With the embroidery now displayed on the wall, the group has launched a ‘Chairs Challenge’ to invite members to stitch a piece inspired by the poem Cargoes by John Masefield.

This challenge features two categories - ‘Hand Embroidery’ and ‘Machine Embroidery’ — and an Autumn Challenge will be announced soon.

For more information on STARS, including how to join the group, visit starstextiles.co.uk or send an email to starsuffolkmembership@gmail.com.

Suzanne Morton, member of STARS, added: “We are a friendly and creative group, and anyone interested in textiles and embroidery are welcome to become STARS member; no qualifications or expertise is required.”