Stairwell

source: dovecotstudios

Dovecot Studios is a one hundred year old tapestry studio, now homed in a beautifully renovated Victorian swimming pool in the heart of Edinburgh. As well as housing the tapestry studio, we also have exhibitions, venue hire, cafe and our shop.

Founded in 1912 by the Marquess of Bute, the studio evolved from the renowned William Morris Craft Studio at Merton Abbey in Wimbledon. Dovecot’s first commission was for a series of monumental tapestries at Mount Stuart, home of the Marquess, on the Island of Bute. Dovecot is unique for its highly creative collaboration between artist, weaver and commissioner. Each tapestry combines the creative ideals of all three creative minds and weaver will interpret, rather than simply translate, a design into textile.

Relationship with contemporary artists

In 1946, the studio established a reputation as a leading contemporary fine art tapestry studio, producing tapestry and rugs for private and public collectors. Renowned 20th century artists such as Dame Elizabeth Blackadder, Graham Sutherland, John Piper, Tom Phillips, Patrick Caulfield, David Hockney and many more have worked with the weavers to produce significant works.

Corporate Commissions

The studio has a long association with corporate patrons. For example, Donald Kendal, Pepsico Chairman, commissioned tapestries for the company’s head office.

Dovecot Studios at Infirmary Street

In 2008 Dovecot completed a £12million refurbishment of Edinburgh’s oldest public baths into workshop and gallery spaces. The new building is also home to the Dovecot Foundation which supports the work of the studios and a programme of cross-discipline exhibitions and events.