The Art of Being an Apprentice, Dovecot Studios

This short film is part of an online exhibition The Art of Being an Apprentice. The exhibition charts the journey of Elaine Wilson as she completes her three-year apprenticeship at Dovecot to become a junior weaver. From translating her own paintings to tapestry, to weaving works inspired by Romantic painter JMW Turner and contemporary artist Jenny Saville, The Art of Being an Apprentice demonstrates the skill and artistry of an early-career weaver.

Since 1912, the skills of tapestry weaving have been passed down from Dovecot Master Weaver to Apprentice. Through this display, we invite you to join us on the Apprentice journey to witness the evolution of skill and artistry of Dovecot’s newest weaver.