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.

Jo graduated in Painting from Edinburgh College of Art in 2010 but grew up weaving alongside her mother. Her artwork as a result is an exciting combination of handwoven tapestry, drawing and painting. Leila is no longer working due to ill health but her artwork remains on show. Both mother and daughters’ artwork is inspired by the rhythm of life and landscape of Orkney, where they were born and brought up.

Jo runs the gallery with her brother Andrew who takes care of the gallery’s picture framing. When he gets time Andrew also makes handcrafted, tufted rugs from Leila and Jo’s artwork.

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.

***REOPENING APRIL 2022 ***

The gallery will reopen on 1st April 2022 with regular, renewed opening hours.

April – September

Monday – Friday 10am – 5.30pm

Sunday 2pm -5pm

(SATURDAY – CLOSED)

We kindly ask customers to continue wearing face coverings at the gallery due to vulnerable staff members. All customers will also be asked to use the hand sanitiser provided at the entrance.

*** 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.