90th Anniversary Exhibition of the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen 1933 – 2023
Saturday 17 June – Sunday 16 July 2023
Crafts in Gloucestershire have a long history based on traditional handwork and the inspiration of designer-makers from the Arts and Crafts movement: Gimson and the Barnsleys who settled in Sapperton in 1894, the radical Whiteway Colony founded in 1898, and C. R. Ashbee whose Guild of Handicraft moved from London’s East End to Chipping Campden in 1902.
This exhibition will celebrate the people, their stories and work from when the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen was set up in 1933 through the 90 years to 2023. Rarely seen examples of textiles, metalwork, jewellery, glass, ceramics, baskets, leather and furniture by past Guild members will be displayed alongside contemporary work by current members, available for sale.
If you visit on one of the Saturdays you can 'Meet the Makers', when Guild members will show and talk about their work.
There will also be workshops at weekends - early booking advised (click here for details & to book):
Leatherworking with Valerie Michael (24 June) SOLD OUT
Basketmaking with Susan Early (1 July)
Mixed Media with Corrine Hockley (9 July)
Jewellery with Harriet St Leger (16 July)
Craft guilds have existed since medieval times as a way of regulating quality and passing on skills between generations. Designing and making can be a lonely process so being part of a group provides fellowship and opportunities to exchange ideas, ask for advice and develop projects with like-minded people. Craft guilds can enable makers to make a living and sell their work directly to those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and design.
The Guild celebrates all those who appreciate and understand the importance of craftsmanship and design and will host a panel discussion on Saturday 8 July : ‘What role can the Gloucestershire Guild and Craft Guilds in general play in the 21st century?’. This special event is free but booking is recommended, Book online or call 01453 763394.
