2020 is a significant year for the Suffolk Craft Society as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary
From its foundation in 1970, The Society’s objective of promoting excellence in designer craft-making and supporting the work of Suffolk based and affiliated craft-makers has been constant. Initially a small group of ceramicists led the way in the formation od the SCS and under its first Chairman, Commander John Jacob, the Society met at Snape Maltings. John Chipperfield the veteran and much-admired ceramicist, was a founder member and still exhibits as an Honorary Member.
Over the years several hundred talented makers across a whole range of craft disciplines have been elected to membership. Many have gone on to forge successful careers in their field.
This year we are planning a return to Bury St Edmunds with a Spring Show at The Guildhall. Our much-loved Summer Exhibition will be held in Aldeburgh and have a celebratory theme. Further details of these and other Anniversary plans will be available soon.
Look out for profiles of many of our makers this Anniversary year in the Suffolk Magazine, starting in the January issue.
If you care about nurturing and supporting great craft skills, please consider becoming a Friend in our Anniversary Year, or get in touch if you are interested in becoming a maker in the society.
Image courtesy of the Suffolk Magazine
Celebrating creativity
Jayne Lindill of the EADT Suffolk Magazine has written an in depth article detailing the history of the Suffolk Craft Society for the January edition of the magazine, from it's creation by ceramiscists John Chipperfield and Robin Welch back in 1970 up to today. Find out about our ethos and what makes our annual summer exhibition at Aldeburgh so good. Read about our Chairperson Sarah Thane and be introduced to Vice Chair and printmaker Sally Freer, batik artist Helen Dougall and sculptor Antonia Hockton.
Liaison with the College Design Scholars Programme
Five Suffolk Craft Society Makers will be welcoming students from Framlingham College to their studios during the coming months. The students are currently on the College Design Scholars Programme. This scheme will be running during February and March 2020 and is just one of the events marking the SCS 50th anniversary.
The aims of this educational outreach to students are:
To inspire and offer a portfolio enhancing experience
To help understanding of the design and craft processes
To give an insight into production and selling
Makers include: Danielle Hopkinson of The Stained Glass Studio in Ipswich. Annette Rolston and Mike Fenton who work in print at Designer Makers 21 in Diss. Ruth Holt who uses traditional weaving methods in her Halesworth studio, and Clare Gaylard who works molten glass in a converted barn in Earl Soham.
Follow us on social media....
