And The Work Goes On: Young Makers at New Brewery Arts
New Brewery Arts in Cirencester, in partnership with Heritage Crafts, is set to launch an exciting new exhibition celebrating the work of young craftspeople. And The Work Goes On will run from 8th February to 24th May 2025, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of traditional and contemporary crafts created by makers under the age of 25.
Taking its name from a quote by William Morris, the exhibition embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and the joy of craftsmanship. The showcased works will span disciplines such as jewellery, textiles, blacksmithing, ceramics, stained glass, stone-dry walling, and botching, reflecting the depth and breadth of heritage crafts in the UK.
Collar by Beth Somerville, winner of the Heritage Crafts Young Embroiderer of the Year 2024
Beth Alden, CEO of New Brewery Arts, highlights the significance of supporting young artisans: “It is a challenging time for young makers who are starting their careers in the craft industry. They are setting themselves up as small businesses in uncertain economic times, often without training in how to do so. Alongside Heritage Crafts, we hope to provide young makers with the opportunity and skills they require to partner with galleries like ours and exhibit their work.”
Daniel Carpenter, Executive Director of Heritage Crafts, echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the difficulties young craftspeople face: “Despite the growth in interest in crafts in recent years, craftspeople and especially young makers face an ever more challenging climate in which to build careers with reduced training opportunities and increases in material and living costs. This is why we are pleased to partner with New Brewery Arts to provide young craftspeople the opportunity to showcase their work to wider audiences, learn from each other and older generations, and be supported to hone their craft at such a critical time for them and the sector.”
Barney Murray, Heritage Crafts Young Building Craftsperson of the Year 2024
A particular highlight of the exhibition is the inclusion of multiple winners of the 2024 Heritage Crafts Awards, such as the inaugural Young Embroiderer of the Year, Young Building Craftsperson of the Year, and Young Weaver of the Year. Their work exemplifies both skill and dedication, ensuring that heritage craft skills continue to thrive for future generations.
Scarlett Farrer, Winner of the Heritage Crafts Young Weaver of the Year 2024
In addition to the exhibition, New Brewery Arts is furthering its commitment to young makers through initiatives like the under-25 mentoring programme. This year, Young Embroiderer of the Year Beth Somerville has been awarded a year-long residency, supported by Arts Council England, allowing her to develop her practice in a professional setting. A networking event will also take place during the exhibition, bringing together exhibitors and mentees to foster a supportive community of emerging craft talent in the UK.
Detail from 'Magdalene' by Julie Clapton, whose work also features in our lead image.
With free entry to the public, And The Work Goes On promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking showcase of skill, imagination, and heritage appreciation. It stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of young makers and the crucial role of organisations like New Brewery Arts and Heritage Crafts in sustaining and celebrating craft traditions for years to come.
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Further Information:
https://www.newbreweryarts.org.uk/
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Image Credits:
Julie Clapton / Heritage Crafts / Beth Somerville / Barney Murray / Scarlet Farrer