The initiative is being organised in partnership with Selina Tusitala Marsh, the current Commonwealth Poet Laureate, who is composing a patchwork collection of 56 poems—each representing one Commonwealth nation. Participants are encouraged to submit artistic works that visually or creatively “thread” through and complement lines from Marsh’s poetry.
One of the guiding verses reads:
“Together, piece by piece by peace, we are one.
But a quilt is never done.
It’s passed down and carried on.
Each generation threads its own.
Each one’s story must be sewn.”
The project invites creators to interpret the idea of “threading” through different art forms. Dancers may thread movements between bodies, musicians can weave melodies through rhythm, painters can thread colours across canvas, storytellers can connect narratives, and photographers can capture light as their thread.
Submissions are open not only to established artists but also to non-artists and anyone who enjoys expressing themselves creatively. The organisers say the goal is to make the project inclusive and reflective of diverse voices across the Commonwealth.
Eligible entries must be original works and may span several categories, including visual arts—such as painting, digital art, photography, illustration and textiles—literary works like poetry, prose and short stories, performing arts including song, rap, music videos and dance, as well as short films ranging from creative storytelling to documentary.
Entries must be submitted by May 9, 2026, through registration on the Commonwealth Foundation’s official website.
According to the organisers, up to three creative submissions from each region will be selected as winners. Each winner will receive a prize of £200, and their works will be showcased in a physical exhibition in Antigua and Barbuda.