The Cutture edit
Last weekend we took a trip to the West country and happened to time it well coinciding with the annual Bovey Tracy Contemporary Craft Fair. Every time we go down to visit family we always pop to the contemporary craft gallery in the town, it’s lovely treat full of inspiring works from local and national designer / makers. Visiting galleries who focus on craft is so important as both designers and makers, in this digital world it also re-inforces that we still need and should nurture the craftsmanship we have in this country.
Contemporary craft obviously ticks all our boxes, beautiful objects, beautifully made, using traditional techniques to produce contemporary products.
The show itself was a great day out, focussing on hands on experiences, good food (something we are so passionate about at these events!) as well as a huge exhibition showcasing the designer’s talents, there’s something for everyone. The children came away so inspired, being able to have first hand experience in print making, mosaics, weaving and even having a go on the potters wheel, is wonderful to inspire the next generation. Scroll down to see our eldest who is 11 having a go at pottery with none other than Sally-Jo Bond, finalist in the BBC’s The Great Pottery Throwdown!
So to our edit, it should be so much longer, but these were definitely stand out products for us. One thing I would note, in researching the companies on our return, it was so hard to find all their imagery, I’m amazed that such talent isn’t being showcased online that extensively; that said, perhaps that is the point of craft, you have to see it to appreciate it, therefore seeking it out is all the more special and you then come home with a unique piece to treasure.
Above :: a new way of thinking. That is a chair made from wool, yes, Solidwool have developed this new durable and, well, solid material from actual sheep’s wool, ready to be turned into products for the home. Genius and pretty lovely.
Above and below :: Sue Pryke // Wild + wood, Stunning cast concrete creations alongside Sue’s signature vitrified earthenware collection, where the clay has been fired to a high temperature leaving a stone like quality, just beautiful.
Above and below :: Mind blowing ceramics by Jin Eui Kim who works ‘in-between the concepts of illusion and reality’ resulting in these incredible everyday pieces for the home.
Below :: Jane Crisp a beautiful take on the traditional ‘trug’. Craftsmanship in every detail from the steam bent Ash and Cherry to the brass component details
Below :: Louise Hall ceramics lovely delicate, yet strong vessels and vases created to mimic the look of paper almost, just beautiful.
Finally! Here is Jasmine being taught (and hugely inspired) by Sally-Jo Bond, if a show can inspire children to be creative in such a hands on way, it has our vote.
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