Zimbabwean-Scottish Artist to Create Aberdeen Tapestry
Award-winning visual artist Sekai Machache has been selected to create a tapestry for the University of Aberdeen, in collaboration with Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh. The project, supported by Jerwood Art Fund Commissions, aims to produce contemporary works reflecting today’s society.
Known for her work challenging notions of self and exploring spirituality and dreaming to initiate dialogue about the culture and identity of Black communities in Scotland, Machache’s partnership with Dovecot Studios and the university promises to be a unique and thought-provoking endeavor.
Exploring the Collections: A Fusion of Art and History
As Machache and the Dovecot team delve into the university’s Collections—an archive rich with Scottish history, archaeology, and sciences—they will draw inspiration to weave a tapestry that reflects the diverse narratives and legacies enshrined within the institution’s walls. Dr. Lisa Collinson, academic and research lead of the University of Aberdeen Collections, expresses excitement about the collaboration, stating, “This is an exciting opportunity for the university to work with a contemporary artist with a growing reputation and to collaborate with the artists at the world-renowned Dovecot Studios.”
Through this partnership, Machache will not only have the chance to explore the rich tapestry of history housed within the university’s archives but also to engage with the challenging legacies they embody. The fusion of art and history promises to spark conversations, evoke emotions, and inspire contemplation among viewers.
A Tapestry in the Making: Witnessing Creativity Unfold
As the weaving process takes shape at Dovecot Studios, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the intricate artistry and dedication that goes into creating a tapestry of this magnitude. The final masterpiece is slated to be unveiled at the Sir Duncan Rice Library at the University of Aberdeen in 2026, where it will stand as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and cultural exploration.
Looking Towards the Future: Inspiring Generations to Come
Dr. Collinson envisions the tapestry not only as a testament to the present collaboration but also as a source of inspiration for future generations of students, artists, and cultural enthusiasts. By bridging the past with the present, the tapestry serves as a living testament to the evolution of art, culture, and identity, inviting viewers to reflect on their own place within the intricate tapestry of history.
Machache’s diverse body of work, ranging from photography and ink drawings to live performances, showcases her multifaceted talent and unwavering commitment to exploring complex themes of identity, spirituality, and community. As a member of the Yon Afro Collective, a group dedicated to empowering women of color in Scotland, Machache brings a unique perspective and voice to the artistic landscape.
Established in 1912, Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh serves as a beacon of artistic excellence and innovation, providing a platform for artists to push boundaries, challenge norms, and create works that resonate with audiences across the globe. Located on Infirmary Street, the studio’s rich history and commitment to artistic collaboration make it the perfect partner for Machache’s ambitious tapestry project.
In the realm of art and culture, collaborations such as the one between Sekai Machache, Dovecot Studios, and the University of Aberdeen exemplify the transformative power of creativity, storytelling, and shared experiences. As the tapestry takes shape, weaving together threads of history, culture, and identity, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience, inviting us to pause, reflect, and connect with the stories woven into the fabric of our shared history.
