Flax Uncovered is the first exhibition of a community led project exploring the role of flax in the history of Bridport.
With its pretty pale blue flower, the seemingly delicate flax plant has an incredible range of uses, from linen and canvas to linseed oil and lino. Grown here for its fibres, flax was once a defining part of the local economy, shaping the town’s identity for over 1,000 years through generations of cultivation, processing and making. Yet while Bridport’s hemp growing and ropemaking histories are well documented, the story of flax is less widely known.
During early summer 2026, community researchers have been searching archives and collections to explore the history of flax in this area, uncovering lost stories and knowledge. This exhibition shares what they have discovered so far and invites visitors to explore maps, documents and books and add their story to help tell the story of a plant, a town and a landscape.
Flax Forward – Telling the story of a plant, a town and a landscape. Flax Forward is a community-led project uncovering the lost heritage of flax and exploring its potential for a sustainable future. Working with local farmers, historians and makers, the project follows flax from seed to stalk, through harvesting and processing, and helps revive a craft that the Heritage Crafts Association has identified as at risk of disappearing altogether.
Flax Forward is a partnership project with Wessex Community Assets, Bridport Museum, Bridport Arts Centre and Bridport School of Regenerative Fashion.
It has been made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Trellis Foundation.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY CONVERSATION EVENT ON FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER
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