This year the National Trust is partnering with renowned collector, author and curator, Karun Thakar to invite visitors to see three historic properties in a new light: Osterley Park and House in west London, Blickling Estate in Norfolk, and Dyrham Park in Gloucestershire.
‘Journeys’ draws on highlights from Thakar’s global textile collections to explore themes of migration, trade, craftsmanship, colonialism, global history and beauty.
Through the universal theme of ‘journeys’, the exhibitions reveal the complex histories of objects, materials, and people – examining both tangible heritage and living traditions. Vibrant textile displays and film will reveal stories often left untold and show how these historic houses were shaped by global connections and colonial legacies.
In the House at Osterley, intricately-embroidered wedding shawls from Punjab will fill Robert Adam’s neoclassical rooms with colour and craft. These textiles, made by young women in the undivided Punjab for ceremonial use, will bring new energy and cultural presence to a property with strong links to global craftsmanship, trade and Empire through the East India Company.
