THE ROS Tapestry will be the subject of an RTE Radio 1 documentary this coming weekend.
On Saturday, June 8, at 2 p.m., listeners will be treated to in-depth interviews with all of the people closely involved with the project including stitchers, embroiders and Countess Ann Bernstorff who will provide a comprehensive overview of the history contained in each panel.
Alexis Bernstorff will also explain how the images were brought to life through the art of embroidery.
The programme was produced by Sarah Blake who compiled stories from embroiders who were involved with the project in the past and also from stitchers who are currently involved in New Ross and Thomastown.
The Ros Tapestry is a major community arts and history project depicting the events around the Anglo-Norman arrival in the South East of Ireland.
In particular it focuses attention on the founding of New Ross town, in 1207, by William Marshal, a famous Knights Templar, and his wife, Isabel de Clare.
By the end of the 13th century New Ross had become one of the ten highest grossing ports in terms of customs in Ireland and Britain. It provided the point of export for grain, wool, cattle hides and timber. During this period it was heavily integrated into the wider European economy with Italian bankers playing a large role in setting up the town and establishing it as an important international trade centre.
This epic tale has been brought to life in the Ros Tapestry through detailed designs by artist, Countess Bernstorff. She researched the historical events, customs, dress, and folklore that provide the substance for the series of fifteen panels. Her daughter Alexis, a textile specialist, has supervised the 150 volunteer embroiderers involved in the project since it began in 1998.
