A Life in Tapestry
Morley Gallery presents :
A Life in Tapestry
The first retrospective exhibition of master weaver 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.
Jefferies is known for his imaginative choice of fibre, vibrant use of colour and variety of themes. His work expresses a joy and love of decoration for its own sake, as well as reflecting his decades of teaching at Kew Studios and Morley College London. Examples of his work are held in some of the most important collections in the country, including the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Crafts Council.
Morley Gallery has the privilege of hosting this exhibition featuring nearly a hundred examples of his tapestry works, including many pieces for public sale. The show is accompanied by a series of lectures and workshops by the artist himself, a cultural moment to celebrate tapestry in art and education in the heart of London.
As we reflect on William Jefferies’ contributions as both artist and tutor, we celebrate not only the beauty of his work but also the enduring spirit of inquiry and generosity he brought to Morley College and to generations of tapestry artists who have found a home in its textile studios. The exhibition celebrates Jefferies’ artistic achievements and gratefully acknowledges his significant and lasting contribution to the intellectual and creative life of Britain’s tapestry community.
Exhibition dates:
Wednesday 21st January – Saturday 7th February
Opening times:
Mon – Fri 12.00 – 5.00pm, Saturday 1.00 – 5.00pm. The gallery is closed on Sundays.
There will be a programme of supporting events including workshops during the
exhibition:
WORKSHOPS (Fully booked now)
1. ‘The Textured Surface’ for Intermediate/Advanced tapestry weavers
- Presented by William Jefferies at Morley Gallery (downstairs):
– Friday 23rd January 2026 from 10-4 with 1 hour for lunch (not provided)
– Friday 4th February 2026 from 10-4 with 1 hour for lunch (not provided) - 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.
GUIDED WALK-THROUGHS
Presented by William Jefferies at Morley Gallery
▪ Monday 26th January 2026 at 1pm
▪ Tuesday 3rd February 2026 at 1pm
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 – ’TAPESTRY AT WORK’ (Fully booked now)
▪ Tuesday 27th January 2026 from 5:00-6:30pm
Join William Jefferies at Morley Gallery for an illustrated talk about the way
tapestry has been used in buildings to project status, antiquity or modernity,
corporate policy, domestic warmth and atmosphere, moral and religious
teachings or create a dramatic setting for boardroom or foyer.
The programme of supporting events can be booked via the exhibition website:
https://www.morleygallery.com/2512-a-life-in-tapestry
Contact – gallery@morleycollege.ac.uk