This year’s exhibition from PRISM explores the hidden meanings embedded in words: their origins, their shifting forms across centuries, misunderstandings, transformations, and cultural echoes.

Through the language of stitch and the limitless possibilities of textile materials, the artists investigate new ways of expressing ideas, developing fresh interpretations and unexpected constructs, using everything from cloth to stone, silk to steel.

Key Information

What: PRISM 2026 – DICTIONARY
When: 17–26 April; 11.00 -18.00 daily (FREE ENTRY)
Where: The Art Pavilion, Mile End Park, E3 4QY
Further Info: Prismtexttiles.co.uk

Free workshops

Throughout the exhibition PRISM members will be hosting free two-hour taster workshops, offering the chance to explore some of the techniques used by our members. From soft sculpture and mending to needle felting, patchwork, and vessel-making, these relaxed sessions are a great opportunity to experiment, learn something new, and get closer to the ideas and processes behind some of the work on show. There’s no need to book – first come, first served.

Fri 17 April (14:30-16:30) Nerissa Cargill Thompson – Stitching Found Florals

Participants will create textile artworks from sections of floral fabrics cut from old clothing, embellished with simple stitch and beading. All materials provided. Max participants: 12. Age: 18+ or 12+ if accompanied by an adult

Sun 19 & 26 April (14:30-16:30) Wolfgang Woerner – 3D Shapes, Marks and Textures

In this playful, hands-on workshop we will create simple 3D forms from cloth and wadding, then bring them to life with embroidery to make lively stitched creatures. You will explore a range of embroidery techniques, building up texture, colour and expressive line to create your own unique creature(s) to take home. Suitable for beginners and all experience levels. All materials provided. Age: 18+

Mon 20 April (11:30-13:30) Patti Taylor – Guerilla Darning and Visible Repair

Mending garments which have moth (or other) holes, using darning or patching. Guerilla darning is NOT invisible – the idea is that the repair becomes an integral and, hopefully, beautiful part of the garment. Participants should bring any garments they want to mend. The tutor will bring some spares. Max participants: 12. Age: 18+

Wed 22 April (11:30-13:30) Maria Walker – Stitched Textile Vessels

Using fabric and running stitch the participants will make a small, stitched textile bowl. All materials provided. Max participants: 10, Age: 16+