The Keiskamma Tapestry is a beautiful embroidered representation of the history of the San and Xhosa people of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It depicts images of endurance and hope. The Tapestry is over 120 metres long and incorporates images of women, men, children, cows, birds, trees, other plants, and traditional life objects. The Keiskamma Tapestry was created by more than 100 women, who learned about their own history through creating it. The women hope that it will help make aspects of their history more widely known both to Xhosa people and others.

Creation of the Keiskamma Tapestry was made possible in part by sponsorship from Keiskamma Friends from around the world. Individuals, families and businesses contributed money, time and materials. The donated money was used to pay the embroiderers for their labour and has brought short-term income to many families. Each sponsor has been acknowledged by having his or her name embroidered on the tapestry alongside that of the artist responsible for that particular panel.

Keiskamma Friends extend deep-felt thanks for the aid received from friends around the world.

See details taken from the tapestry in our gallery, or view it in its entirety at the Keiskamma Trust website here.