MORLEY GALLERY
A LIFE IN TAPESTRY
EXHIBITION OF THE WORK OF TAPESTRY ARTIST WILLIAM JEFFERIES
20 January - 7 February 2026
We are pleased to present the first retrospective exhibition of William Jefferies’ woven tapestries, illustrating the development of his unique visual language over five decades. It offers a rare insight into his creative process and sources of inspiration, as well as his distinctive and virtuosic exploration of materials and the woven surface. There will be a programme of supporting events including workshops and guided walk throughs during the exhibition. Much of the work has not been shown before, and many pieces will be for sale.
After training with Archie Brennan, Maureen Hodge, and Fiona Hutchison at the Edinburgh College of Art Jefferies went on to work at the Dovecot tapestry studio, and subsequently to complete an MA at the RCA. A dedicated teacher, he led the Morley College Tapestry course for 18 years until retirement, and he continues to run regular workshops at his studio in Kew. His work is in the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Crafts Council, and the Scottish Craft Collection, as well as in privately by both international and UK collectors.
Opening times:
Tuesday - Friday: 12-5pm
Saturday: 1-5pm
Exhibition events programme
Booking links to follow shortly
PRIVATE VIEW
Tuesday 20th January 2026 6-8pm
No booking necessary
WORKSHOPS
'The Textured Surface' for Intermediate/Advanced tapestry weavers
Presented by William Jefferies, Friday 23rd January 2026 10-4 with 1 hour for lunch (not provided)
Morley Gallery (downstairs)
8 participants / £60
Join William Jefferies in employing a variety of the techniques he uses to bring the surface of woven tapestry into relief. We will use whipping, knotting, wrapping, soumak, and floating weft. If time allows, tufting could be added to complement the other textures.
The course will provide pre-warped looms,a range of yarns that will respond to textural techniques, and bobbins for use. Work will be cut off the loom at the end of the workshop
Intermediate and advanced tapestry weavers only, beginners cannot be accommodated.
'The Joy of Knotting' for Intermediate/Advanced tapestry weavers
Presented by William Jefferies, Friday 30th January 2026 10-4 with 1 hour for lunch (not provided)
Morley Gallery (downstairs)
8 participants / £60
William Jefferies will lead this short course exploring the potential of the double half hitch knot to enliven the woven surface. Techniques will include:
• Continuous knotting delineating edging around areas of flat weaving
• Sprinkled knotting
• Knotting for securing yarns or twigs
The course will provide pre-warped looms,a range of yarns that will respond to textural techniques, and bobbins for use. Work will be cut off the loom at the end of the workshop
Intermediate and advanced tapestry weavers only, beginners cannot be accommodated.
GUIDED WALK-THROUGHS
Monday 26th January 2026 at 1pm
Tuesday 3rd February 2026 at 1pm
Presented by William Jefferies
Morley Gallery
FREE
William Jefferies will host a walk through of his solo retrospective exhibition 'A Life in Tapestry'. This is an informal event, allowing visitors to gain a greater insight into the work on display and into William's approach to tapestry. Please feel free to bring additional guests.
PENNY LECTURE
Tuesday 27th January 2026
(Morley Gallery Lates. Timing 5.30-7)
Subject to be confirmed.