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National Trust Removes 'A Virtuous Woman' after Public Tampering of JK Rowling’s Name

The decision follows action by feminist campaigner Jean Hatchet who unpicked JK Rowling’s stitching from the display.

JK Rowling. (Getty/Canva)
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Overview

  • Between April and November 2024, Hardwick Hall visitors were invited to stitch names of inspirational women into a communal textile titled 'A Virtuous Woman'.
  • JK Rowling’s name was added seven times during contributions and later overstiched twice by other participants before the installation opened.
  • In May 2025, Jean Hatchet publicly shared images of her and another woman unpicking Rowling’s entries as a corrective measure.
  • A National Trust spokesperson said the piece was removed on June 5 for investigation and to shield it from further interference.
  • The incident underscores the tensions cultural institutions face in preserving participatory art that involves divisive public figures.