Threads of a City
Greater Manchester History in the Making...
Get involved projects runs 6th October to 15th December 2026
Threads of a City is an ambitious, community driven tapestry project. It brings together people from across Greater Manchester to co-create a powerful visual story of place, identity, and belonging. At its heart, this project is about connection—connecting individuals to each other, to their communities, and to the shared narratives that shape the city. Community art has a unique ability to engage people in ways that traditional initiatives often cannot. It creates space for participation rather than observation, inviting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences to contribute meaningfully. Read More...
Through the simple yet symbolic act of stitching, participants become storytellers sharing memories, cultures, and perspectives that might otherwise go unheard. This process fosters pride, strengthens relationships, and builds a sense of collective ownership. Arts based approaches are increasingly recognised as crucial for building social cohesion and opening meaningful discussion within communities.
What makes Threads of a City particularly significant is that it is the first project of its kind in the region: a large-scale, collaborative textile artwork designed to represent the diverse voices of Greater Manchester in one unified piece. By combining creativity with community engagement, the project responds to a growing need for inclusive, accessible spaces where people can come together, especially at a time when social connection and belonging are more important than ever. The anticipated outcomes extend far beyond the finished tapestry.
Participants will gain confidence, develop new skills and friendships, and experience the wellbeing benefits associated with creative expression. Communities will be strengthened through shared activities and dialogue, while local stories, past and present, will be preserved in a tangible, lasting form. The final tapestry will stand not only as a piece of art but as a collective achievement and a testament to the power of community voice.
The project is supported by established partnerships, including an agreement with Manchester Histories Festival, which can be provided on request. Additionally, contributors, including those who have generously donated thread, yarn, and materials, which can also be made available if required, reflect the depth of community involvement and shared ownership at the heart of the initiative. Threads of a City demonstrates that art is not just something to be viewed; it is something to be lived, shared, and created together