Slave Song Manuscript – Gloucester Cathedral

The world’s oldest surviving slave song manuscript will form the centrepiece of a new exhibition at Gloucester Cathedral next month.

Oldest surviving slave song manuscript inspires new work at Gloucester Cathedral

The 18^th-century slave song, from the voices of enslaved people on the sugar plantations of Barbados, is a UNESCO world heritage document and will be a highlight of the new exhibition to celebrate Gloucester’s diverse people and history.

Curated by Voices Gloucester for Threads 2024, an annual heritage textiles programme, the exhibition will showcase new artworks and textiles including two new projects showcasing international artists and local quilt makers.

Inspired by the historical slave song, Gloucester-based artist Rider Shafique, of Bajan descent, and British-Jamaican photographer Vanley Burke have created new art that explores the impact of the transatlantic slave trade from their perspectives as descendants of Caribbean enslaved people.

Newly commissioned quilts, led by Gloucestershire-based textile artist and curator Jo Teague, forms part of the programme entitled ‘Belonging and Unbelonging’, and will explore themes of migration, displacement, neurodiversity, cultural histories, and the ways in which the people of Gloucester have influenced the wider world.

Canon Rebecca Lloyd, Gloucester Cathedral’s Canon Chancellor and Director of Learning and Participation said: “The Cathedral is honoured to host these important works and celebrate the rich tapestry of Gloucester’s diverse people and stories while sparking important conversations on identity and justice.

“This exhibition embodies our commitment to being a place where everyone is welcome, where all voices are heard, and where art can inspire positive change within our community.”

Local artist and curator of the exhibition Jo Teague added:

“Voices Gloucester is proud to celebrate the radical flair of artists and quilt makers. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for talented local makers to share their craft alongside two artists engaged in an internationally significant dialogue.

 Through these quilts, we will tell the intricate stories of our community, while honouring Gloucester’s rich history. Long recognised as a female art form embodying love, thriftiness, and personal narratives, quilting holds a special place in our cultural heritage. Through this exhibition, we aim to spark a renewed conversation about the history of women’s work and quilting, and to elevate quilting within the visual arts.”.

The exhibition runs from 6 – 30 September and will be complemented by a series of talks at The Folk of Gloucester, Museum of Gloucester and Gloucester Cathedral

Discover this programme and book your place at these events online here.