mudac and Fondation Toms Pauli are proud to present an exceptional exhibition dedicated to tapestry as a vector for social and political discourse.
Far from being confined to a decorative role, tapestry has always been a powerful tool for storytelling. From medieval times to contemporary creations, it provides a space for dialogue at the crossroads of collective aspirations, historical narratives, and contemporary issues.
The exhibition brings together major works from the Toms collection, woven in the prestigious Brussels workshops between 1660 and 1725, alongside contemporary creations by Goshka Macuga and Grayson Perry. Tapestries, such as The History of Scipio Africanus and The Emperors Titus and Vespasian, depict glorious and symbolic episodes from Roman narratives. At this occasion two tapestries will be presented to the public for the first time, highlighting the value and prestige of this collection, owned by the State of Vaud.
These historical masterpieces resonate with the powerful creations of Goshka Macuga and Grayson Perry. Through tapestries such as Perry’s The Vanity of Small Differences or bespoke works by Macuga, the exhibition explores contemporary themes of social struggle, critiques of consumer society, and power dynamics. For this occasion, Macuga will create a unique textile work, specially created in dialogue with the Toms collection, which will enhance the exhibition with a distinctive and contemporary perspective.
The confrontation of ancient and contemporary works will highlight the timeless power of tapestry, with its visual language capable of conveying complex messages and fostering reflection on universal issues.
Curators | Marco Costantini, director of mudac Magali Junet, director of Fondation Toms Pauli |
Supported by | Diane Maechler |
Exhibition design | Raphaèle Gygi |