Half-term activities inspired by new Orient Express quilt exhibition

This exhibition was conceived during lockdown by European members of SAQA, creating an artistic link between countries along the theme of the Orient Express, the luxury train service which links Paris and Istanbul.

Each artist created their own panel inspired by their own country or culture. The brief was wide; they could feature a city, landscape, country, movie scene, literary connection, cultural feature, or decorative item of the time. The only stipulation was they had to be the same size for the exhibition.

When brought together, the Orient Express quilts create a narrative journey across the European continent. Exhibited in STEAM’s Caerphilly Hall, this will be the first time the quilts have been displayed in the UK, having previously been to the Netherlands, Germany, France, Hungary and Belgium. Seven UK-based artists feature in the exhibition, including Maggie Harris from Swindon.

John Wood, STEAM’s Collections and Exhibitions Manager, said: “We’re so excited to be the opening venue of the UK leg of the exhibition’s European tour. It’s been great to be able to exhibit all of the quilts together, as the scale of STEAM’s Caerphilly Hall allows them to hung in a continuous series.

“We’ve had really great feedback from visitors who have already seen the works and admired the skill and artistry on display.”

Inspired by the exhibition, STEAM Museum and SAQA are offering an immersive creative activity. Artist Maggie Harris will work with participants to transform blank shopping bags into pieces of art, that can be laundered and reused. This activity is family friendly and perfect for children and adults alike.

Frances Yeo, Swindon Museums Manager, said “I’m delighted that artist and SAQA member Maggie Harris is going to share some of her artistic know-how with our visitors over half-term with these fantastic workshops.

“Hopefully, participants will be able to unleash their creativity and create their own artworks which double as reusable bags!”

The exhibition, Orient Express – An Artistic Train Ride Through Europe, runs until November 5 and is free with normal museum entry.

Places for the half-term family activity are available this Wednesday (25 Oct) and Friday (27 Oct). The price is £4 per participant and can be booked either with museum entry or as a stand-alone activity. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Places can be booked via the website: https://www.steam-museum.org.uk/event/half-term-activity-design-your-own-bag/