If you are looking for something special this Christmas, Present Makers 2021 features creative innovation across craft and design. You'll be buying handcrafted, one-off pieces from local designers and makers including textiles, prints, ceramics, homewares and jewellery, as well as unique Christmas cards and decorations.
This popular annual exhibition at Thelma Hulbert Gallery (THG) will showcase new collections from key makers from across the South West.
East Devon-based ceramic designer, Jo Whiteley creates beautiful hand-thrown stone ceramics in a range of vibrant colours. Jo said,
“I am a craftsperson first and foremost. Beginning with the actual making of the clay itself and ending with a beautiful and more importantly, useful piece of pottery. When I open the kiln after a gloss firing it still feels like opening my presents on Christmas day as a child.”
The beautiful new collection of cushions designed by Hugh Dunford Wood features lino cut prints of animals including cats and badgers.
Priormade creates contemporary homewares, lighting and accessories using a range of sustainable, low impact and recycled materials. Attention to detail, skilled craftsmanship and responsible fabrication is at the forefront of every design. All products are individually handmade in their Bristol workshop.
Dorset-based maker, Anna Wiscombe creates decorative wooden homewares and jewellery inspired by the flora and fauna of the English countryside. Craftsmanship and quality are central to Anna’s practice; the utmost attention to detail and care is taken in making each and every hand-painted piece.
Jane Lake specialises in bespoke, hand-built pottery working in stoneware and terracotta from her Plymouth studio. She is inspired by the seasonal colours and textures of the surrounding landscape of the West Country.
Printmaker Jeremy Speck produces bold, abstract, original prints exploring shape, texture and colour, as well as landscape prints inspired by the Mid-Devon countryside.
Ruth Gooding, THG Curator and Arts Development Manager commented: "Shop local this Christmas at THG and support South West makers! We hope you will join us at the opening on Saturday 13 November for a glass of mulled wine and maker demos throughout the day including glassmaking and pottery."
Present Makers 2021 (13 November - 24 December)
Thursday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm (Wednesdays group bookings by appointment)
Opening event including maker demos: 13 November, 10am - 5pm.