Ushaw Through the Eye of a Needle

As a place surrounded by beautiful imagery, architecture and patterns, Ushaw has long inspired those who work within its walls. For textile artist Tracey Russell, it became an aim to translate some of this inspiration into stitches.

The first challenge was time. A project like this could go on forever. Therefore, Ushaw’s history provided the framework: exactly one hour of creation for every year since Ushaw first welcomed students.

Mapping the timeline from 1808 to 2026, the project was given a limit of 218 hours to plan, cut, sew and frame the collection. Clocking in at 219 hours, this constraint revealed that even a lifetime of stitching could only begin to scratch the surface of this beautiful place.

With a table full of fabrics, two sewing machines, one for straight stitch and one for free sewing, a full palette of sewing threads and a small plan of where each element would go, the collection began to take shape. Free machine embroidery allows the needle to be used much like a pencil, creating a sense of freedom and spontaneity in the work.

Felt was chosen as the main fabric, as it immediately creates a quilted effect when sewn and, importantly, does not fray.

Reflecting again on the age of Ushaw’s buildings and the treasures held within them, it felt fitting to bring a vintage thread collection into the work. Surprisingly, the threads had not dried out. Some elements of the embroidery have been created using threads that have been in the artist’s family for more than 100 years.

The resulting collection features pieces of embroidery inspired by the three main areas of Ushaw. A few are obvious. Can you spot them as you make your way around the buildings?

On display until Sunday 23 August 2026, entry is included with admission and membership.