Lichfield Cathedral’s volunteer embroiderers are taking part in a major national textile masterpiece: The Circle of Life - an ambitious Opus Anglicanum embroidery project sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Upholders, one of London’s ancient Livery Companies dating back to 1360 - and visitors have the opportunity to see the work in progress.

The artwork, over two metres in diameter and designed by internationally recognised iconographer Aidan Hart, will be the most significant piece of Opus Anglicanum embroidery created since the Fishmonger Pall of 1530.

The Cathedral’s embroiderers are contributing one of twelve embroidered segments, created in collaboration with other English cathedrals and Fine Cell Work. Using traditional techniques and intricate needlework skills, production began in April 2025. Once assembled, the completed work will be displayed at the Guildhall in the City of London to mark the 400th anniversary of the Upholders’ Royal Charter, before touring participating cathedrals across the country.

On Monday 17 February, visitors are invited to meet the Lichfield Cathedral Embroiderers and representatives from the Upholder’s Guild in the Cathedral from 2- 4pm for a rare chance to:

• Watch demonstrations of ancient medieval embroidery techniques
• See work in progress on Lichfield’s contribution
• Learn about the history and significance of Opus Anglicanum
• Ask the team questions about this nationally important collaborative artwork

The Lichfield panel (an outline of the Cathedral worked onto blue fabric) will be collected on 17 February by the Worshipful Company of Upholders. The second piece will then be taken to the Royal School of Needlework in March, where it will be joined with the eleven other panels from cathedrals across the country.

Lyn Stephenson, representing the Lichfield Cathedral Embroiderers, said: “It has been a tremendous privilege to contribute to such a significant national project. As a team of seven volunteer embroiderers, we have loved the opportunity to revive medieval needlework techniques, learn new skills, and work together on this beautiful piece. Being part of a collaboration with cathedrals across the country is something very special, and we warmly invite visitors to come along on 17 February to talk with us, see our progress, and discover more about this remarkable artwork.”

The Cathedral extends a warm welcome to all who wish to witness this extraordinary project as it nears completion and prepare to send its panel to join the others in London.