Quilt exhibition examines 'Human Cost of War'

'The Human Cost of War' exhibition will include a selection of textile pieces created by women from across the world including Chile, Spain, Peru and Northern Ireland. The textile pieces address various forms of conflict and war as experienced by women from across the globe. Each piece is accompanied by a narrative which details why, how and when the piece was put together. For many of those involved in producing these items it was a way of remembering experiences, passing on details to family, friends and the outside world, even a form of therapy.

Facilitating the exhibition will be guest curator, Roberta Bacic from Chile, who since 2007 has worked with the Tower Museum on a number of exhibitions relating to the use of quilting and textiles.

Bernadette Walsh of Derry City Council's Museum Service believes that the exhibition has particular poignancy, addressing as it does two elements - the textile industry and conflict - both of which loom large in the region's consciousness.

"Derry has a strong link to the textile industry and it was through these initial links - a meeting between Women's Groups, Cresco Trust and Councillor Helen Quigley - that the partnership between the Museum Service and Roberta began to develop.

"This exhibition was originally on display in the Imperial War Museum London in November 2009, it was commissioned by the Movement for the Abolition of War. The exhibition has enabled women from across the globe to speak about experiences and to ask questions about what 'we' can do to help," she said.

Starting on November 4, there will be a series workshops and round table discussions relating to the exhibition and Roberta Bacic will lead a guided tour and talk about the exhibition at 11.30am every Friday, from November 12 until December 17.

For more information visit www.derrycity.gov.uk/museums/towerevents.asp