Making History is a maker-in-residence Scotland-wide initiative, supported by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Craft Scotland. 

Starting in 2021, we have hosted makers in residence in some of Scotland’s finest historical buildings, working with makers to support a community engagement craft project. 

For 2024, designer/maker Felicity Bristow is in residency at contemporary arts centre Hospitalfield and in The New Scriptorium at Historic Environment Scotland property Arbroath Abbey.

Facilitated by festival and community project Arbroath 2020+1 as part of their Power & Word Programme, Felicity will be working with Home-Start Angus, a charity dedicated to supporting young families. She will be running a series of workshops to make ‘Roots and Crowns’ books with community participants. These handmade and personalised books will reflect family trees and can be used to explore positive memories and experiences as well as commemorating loss.

The New Scriptorium, designed by artist Bobby Niven, will be sited on the Arboath Abbey grounds for one year in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Arbroath 2020 Committee and part of the Angus Place Partnership Programme.

Taking inspiration from the physical structure, stories, history and culture of these buildings, the maker-in-residence will be supported to work with a community group exploring skills in a craft discipline. They will also have access to Historic Environment Scotland's rich archive resources.  

Learn more about Felicity Bristow’s practice.