Welcome to the Suffolk Craft Society
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 of 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. If you care about nurturing and supporting great craft skills, please consider becoming a Friend, or get in touch if you are interested in becoming a maker in the society.
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That's a wrap
Kicking Off 2025 with two inspiring exhibitions
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Suffolk in the City - final days
Don't miss some of Suffolk’s finest in London . The final days of Suffolk in the City...
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Final weekend at the Minories
We’re in the final days of our exciting return to the historic Minories Gallery in Colchester, and we’d love for you to be part of it.
The Minories and Suffolk in the City
As our first exhibitions of 2025 draw to a close, we’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited us at The Minories in Colchester and Suffolk in the City during London Craft Week. Being in two places at once is no small feat, but with the dedication of our talented members, generous supporters, Chair, and Patron, we made it happen.
This was our second year exhibiting at the beautiful Minories, an inspiring venue we hope to return to next year. Although we carry the Suffolk name, many of our members hail from Essex and beyond, making Colchester a fitting and welcoming location.
Suffolk in the City marked our debut showcase as part of London Craft Week - an exciting collaboration with our Patron and former Chair, Trevor Pickett.
Each exhibition had its own distinct character, yet both celebrated the exceptional standard of contemporary craftsmanship that defines the Society.
As we take a moment to pause and look ahead, don’t forget that many of our members’ exquisite handcrafted pieces are available in our online shop - unique and beautiful work is just a click away >>
Looking for something truly special but can't attend any of our exhibtions? Discover a beautiful selection of handcrafted work by our talented craftspeople - from ceramics and textiles to woodwork, jewellery, every piece is made with skill, creativity, and passion.
This June, step inside the creative world of Suffolk Craft Society members during Suffolk Open Studios 2025 - a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and into the workspaces of some of Suffolk’s most talented artists and makers.
Over four weekends, studios across the county will open their doors, giving visitors an intimate look at the creative process. See work in progress, hear the stories behind the pieces, and enjoy conversations with the makers themselves. From striking prints and sculptural forms to beautifully crafted jewellery, there’s something to delight and inspire.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply curious, it’s a relaxed and free way to discover exceptional local talent—and perhaps find a unique handcrafted piece to take home.
Confirmed Suffolk Craft Society participants include Helen Maxfield, Clare Gaylard, Kate Reynolds, Annabel Ridley, Cathy D'Arcy, Usch Spettigue, Nicola Coe, and Robert Wicken.
Studios will be open every weekend in June.
The Suffolk Craft Society is excited to offer small grants of up to £500 twice a year to support Makers and creative projects. Whether it’s an exhibition, workshop, or new equipment, we’re here to help bring your innovative ideas to life and promote the value of contemporary crafts.
The first application deadline for this round is Saturday 31 May 2025 at midnight. Don’t miss your chance to receive funding for your project – apply today.
Time
Time to develop new ideas
Time to explore familiar materials in new ways
Time to combine different materials
Time to work on a larger or smaller scale
Time to get out of a rut and start anew
Time to plan a whole new body of work
The possibilities are endless