September 2024

26 Sep 2024

Rachel Davies / Photo by the artist

This month brings inspiring news for Scotland’s craft sector, with notable achievements and events showcasing the vibrant creativity of makers across the country.

Read on with September's edition of The Craft Edit.

Image: Doug Fitch and Hannah McAndrew / Photography by Shannon Tofts

Fitch and McAndrew's Slipware Pottery Joins the V&A’s Collection 

Potters Doug Fitch and Hannah McAndrew announce that two pieces of their work have been purchased for the Victoria and Albert Museum’s permanent collection.

Based in Galloway, southwest Scotland, Doug and Hannah make slipware ceramics influenced by British folk pottery. Their wide range of slipware pots reference classical form while embracing contemporary style.

The V&A describes their own ceramics collection as ‘unrivalled anywhere in the world. Encyclopaedic and global in scope, they encompass the history of fine ceramic production from about 2500 BC to the present day.’

In response to her work being acquired for the collection Hannah shared:

“The phenomenal ceramics collection at the V&A has been inspirational to us both over our years of learning. For two of our own pots to be joining that collection of exquisite work is something we would never have dared dream of. We are honoured and still somewhat stunned.”

The large, applique jug by Doug and Sextant Poppy charger by Hannah will also be included in an exhibition at the V&A South Kensington from the end of October this year.

www.fitchandmcandrew.co.uk

Image: Elin Isaksson / Photography by Julie Howden

Glass Artist Elin Isaksson to Create Trophies for Scotland’s SAY Award 2024

The SAY Award, Scotland's national music prize, has selected glass artist Elin Isaksson to design this year’s bespoke trophies.

Based in Dunblane, Elin combines traditional glass-making techniques with contemporary designs. Her glasswork often expresses simple yet tactile forms in subtle colourways.

Elin’s winning proposal for the SAY Award focuses on sustainability and plans to repurpose pieces of recycled glass formed during the blowing process of her previous hand-blown creations.

The awards will be presented at The SAY Award Ceremony on 24 October 2024, at Stirling’s historic Albert Halls. A short video documenting the creative process behind Elin’s design will be screened during the event.

Elin will also present her work in a month-long exhibition at The Tolbooth Gallery in early 2025.

www.elinisakssonglass.com

Image: Rachel Davies / Photography by Sophie Davies

Rachel Davies Blends Craft and Nature in a New Book and Mosaic Exhibition

Dunblane-based mosaic artist Rachel Davies is releasing a new book titled ‘Mosaics Inspired by Nature: Creating Contemporary Craft’.

Launching on the 26 September, Rachel’s book covers methods and techniques for creating mosaics and explores the intricate beauty of abstract mosaic designs, drawing inspiration from the natural world.

The book is aimed at both seasoned makers and beginners, offering a comprehensive approach to mosaic-making.

Image: Rachel Davies, lichen circle detail / Photography by the artist

To celebrate the launch, Rachel will also host a solo exhibition at Made in Stirling gallery, where copies of the book will be available for purchase. Signed copies can be pre-ordered from Bloomsbury and other online booksellers.

Inspired by Nature runs 28 Sep – 23 Oct 2024, Made in Stirling, 44 King Street, Stirling, FK8 1AY

www.racheldaviesmosaics.com

Image: Sheng Zhang / Photography by Shannon Tofts

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2024 Showcases Scottish Contemporary Jewellery

This year Goldsmiths’ Fair continues to celebrate the finest contemporary jewellery and silversmithing across the UK, with a strong representation of Scotland-based makers.

Now in its fourth decade, the Fair will showcase the work of 136 jewellers and silversmiths at Goldsmiths' Hall in London. The event provides a unique opportunity for collectors, curators, and jewellery enthusiasts to engage directly with makers. A programme of talks also provides a platform for discussion about the evolving trends in the jewellery world and the future of the craft.