The Hoxa Tapestry Gallery is home to mother and daughter artists Leila Thomson and Jo Thomson. The gallery was built by Leila and husband Benny in 1996 to exhibit her large, unique, handwoven tapestries. Leila graduated in Tapestry from Edinburgh College of Art in 1980.
In 2011 Leila’s daughter Jo and son Andrew joined the family business. Jo is a Painting graduate from Edinburgh College of Art (2010) although tapestry weaving is second nature to her as she grew up weaving alongside her mum, Leila. Both Jo and Leila’s artwork is inspired by the rhythm of life and landscape of Orkney, where they were born and brought up.
Andrew has taken over the picture framing and much of the gallery administration. When he gets time Andrew also makes rugs from Leila and Jo’s rug designs and provides multiple cups of tea and coffee to help keep the creative juices flowing!
Since opening to the public in June 1996 the gallery has received visitors from all over the world each year. Both Leila and Jo have artwork in private collections worldwide.
***OPENING HOURS 2021***
The gallery is currently remaining closed. Opening times will be reviewed on 26th April in accordance with the Scottish Government easing Covid-19 restrictions regarding travel and tourism.
At present any Orkney residents wanting to make any purchases should get in touch with us via telephone or e-mail. Jo is at work every weekday and is happy to help and arrange payment and collection/delivery of items.
tel: 01856 831395
e-mail: enquiries@hoxatapestrygallery.co.uk
Opening times last reviewed and updated on 31/03/21
*** UPDATE REGARDING E.U. ORDERS***
Due to new E.U. Tax laws and regulations regarding exporting to the E.U. post Brexit, we sadly have suspended orders to E.U. countries. This will hopefully only be a temporary measure whilst we figure out how to handle the situation for both you, the customers, and us as a small family-run business. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
***POSTAL/WEB ORDERS UPDATE***
To limit our trips to the post office during the COVID19 pandemic all web/postal orders will be posted on Tuesdays only until further notice. Thank you for your co-operation and understanding in these trying times.