Connecting Through Threads - Thackray Medical Museum

Connecting Through Threads is a collaborative

embroidery artwork between artist Elnaz Yazdani

and the Being You Leeds group Tea, Talk and Trips.

Tea, Talk and Trips is a weekly wellbeing group for

women in Leeds who have immigrated to the UK

including, but not exclusive to, asylum seekers and

refugees. The group aims to improve the women’s

mental wellbeing by allowing them to learn more

about the history of Leeds, develop new skills and

improve their confidence.

Leeds-based embroidery artist Elnaz Yazdani

worked with the group over six months, teaching

them a range of embroidery techniques including

shisha mirror work, embroidery stitches, appliqué

and embroidering text, to translate their ideas

into stitch.

The fifinal piece explores themes of identity,

connection and finding peace in new places. It

allowed the group to bond through the healing and

restorative practice of stitching together around one

table, and to bring together their identities, cultures,

and religions to create something beautiful. The

artwork is a lasting celebration of them and their

wonderful group.

Work is on display at Thackery Medical Museum from October 2025