A major new exhibition in London is bringing contemporary tapestry art into the spotlight, showcasing how artists and master weavers are transforming a centuries-old craft into a modern form of creative expression.

Beyond Bayeux: Tapestry Now opened at Guildhall Art Gallery on 23 October 2026. The exhibition features more than 20 tapestries created by Edinburgh-based Dovecot Studios in collaboration with leading artists, including David Hockney, Yinka Shonibare, Alberta Whittle, Rachel Maclean and Hurvin Anderson.

One highlight is a new monumental tapestry by Hurvin Anderson, commissioned to mark the 600th anniversary of Lincoln College, Oxford. Visitors can also see a tapestry interpretation of Hockney’s 1963 painting Play within a Play.

The exhibition explores how weaving, colour and texture can tell stories in ways that connect traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art. It also coincides with renewed interest in the Bayeux Tapestry and the history of textile storytelling.

The exhibition runs until 21 March 2027, with opening hours listed as 10am to 5pm. Admission operates on a pay-what-you-can basis, allowing visitors to choose how much they pay or visit free.