Weaving Aberdeen’s History: A Tapestry of Identity and Belonging
Exciting Sekai Machache commission brings contemporary art and historical reflection to Sir Duncan Rice Library.
The University of Aberdeen is set to create a striking new tapestry for the Sir Duncan Rice Library, exploring themes of cultural identity, history, and belonging. Zimbabwean-Scottish artist Sekai Machache will collaborate with Edinburgh’s renowned Dovecot Studios to design and weave the piece, supported by the Jerwood Art Fund Commissions. The tapestry will be unveiled in early 2026, offering the city a powerful new work of contemporary art inspired by its rich collections.
A Collaboration Rooted in History
This ambitious project draws on the University of Aberdeen’s extensive archives, recognised as Nationally Significant by Museums Galleries Scotland. Spanning Scottish history, archaeology, science, and global cultures, the collections inspire Machache’s creative vision. Known for her work exploring spirituality, identity, and the visibility of Black communities in Scotland, Machache will delve into these archives to reflect on their challenging legacies while collaborating closely with University teams.
Lisa Collinson from the University of Aberdeen Collections highlighted how this project combines innovation with heritage: “This is an exciting opportunity for the University to work with a contemporary artist with a growing reputation.” She added that the collaboration with Dovecot Studios will allow Sekai Machache to “explore the University’s collections as well as think about the challenging legacies they embody.”
Machache’s partnership with Dovecot Studios builds on their previous success creating a tapestry for Scottish Women Artists: 250 Years of Challenging Perception. This new commission offers an opportunity to deepen their collaboration while celebrating Aberdeen’s unique cultural heritage.
Connecting Art and Community
Visitors will have the rare chance to witness the tapestry woven live at Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh. The studio’s public viewing space allows audiences to connect directly with the creative process, making the journey from concept to completion an engaging experience for all.
Once completed, the tapestry will take pride of place in the Sir Duncan Rice Library and become part of the University’s permanent collection. It aims to inspire future generations while fostering conversations about cultural identity and history within Aberdeen and beyond.
This commission celebrates Aberdeen’s past and invites you to reflect on how art shapes our sense of belonging. Keep an eye on updates as this exciting project unfolds—and don’t miss your chance to experience this remarkable artwork when it is unveiled in 2026.
