The Daly House Museum in Brandon, Manitoba, has opened a new exhibit that showcases the history and art of embroidery. The display, titled The Art of Embroidery: Past and Present, opened on March 7, 2026, and will be available for the public to visit until May 30, 2026. This project is a partnership with the local Brandon Embroiderers group to show how the craft has changed over the last two centuries.
The exhibit features more than 100 individual pieces of embroidery dating from the 1800s to the present day. Visitors can see how the work has evolved from a traditional household activity into a recognized form of fine art. The collection includes various styles and complex methods, such as needle painting and the use of metallic threads.
Organizers say the display highlights a shift toward more personal and artistic designs rather than just following simple kits or patterns. The project was put together with the help of co-curator Sylvia Barr and Darlene Tufts-Dunlop, the president of the Brandon Embroiderers. Residents can view the collection at the historic Victorian mansion, which serves as a local landmark for the community’s history.