About Us
The Suffolk Craft Society was formed in 1970 to promote the value and importance of contemporary crafts and to support individual craftspeople in the creation of their work. The Society supports around 90 makers with a wide variety of craft skills.
The aims of the Society
To promote good design and fine workmanship in the crafts, To advance the careers of the Society’s craft makers, To recruit new makers who demonstrate excellence in their craft, To promote the education and training of craft workers, To inform and educate the public about the crafts.
For many years, the Society was best known for its renowned summer exhibition in Aldeburgh, an annual highlight that showcased the exceptional work of our members. More recently, we have embraced a broader vision, expanding our reach across the Eastern region with exhibitions in historic and prestigious venues, bringing our makers’ work to a wider and more diverse audience.
Beyond exhibitions, we are committed to supporting and promoting our makers’ work through multiple platforms including our online shop and social media platforms.
As we continue to grow, the Suffolk Craft Society remains committed to preserving heritage skills, supporting our makers, and inspiring future generations of craft enthusiasts.
Organisation
The Society has relied on a few dedicated makers and friends supported by a voluntary committee to organise and run the society. Makers are expected as part of their membership to offer some stewarding days for exhibitions. Where necessary the committee authorises fees to makers or freelances to organise, mount and supervise exhibitions, and also for some regular financial and secretarial assistance.
Our current personnel:
Patron - Trevor Pickett | Chair - Juliet Bowmaker | Vice Chair - Liz Chester
Treasurer - Nicci Dedman | Secretary - Sarah Woodcock | Friends Secretary - Paul Simmons
Membership Co-ordinator - Ruth Holt
Other Committee members - Alison Dane | Hassina Khan | Pat Todd
Non Committee members - Social Media Co-ordinator - Clare Gaylard | Webmaster - Helen Smith
The Value of Membership
At the heart of Suffolk Craft Society membership is a shared passion for craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. The Society fosters a dynamic community of makers, offering a platform where artisans can exchange ideas, share experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals. By joining, members gain more than just opportunities for exposure—they become part of a respected network that values skill, creativity, and innovation.
Our mission is to elevate the status of craft makers within the cultural sector, supporting them in finding appreciative audiences and platforms to showcase their work. Whether through exhibitions, collaborations, or professional development, we aim to ensure that craft remains a thriving and recognized art form.
The Society actively promotes members' work, helping to broaden their reach and visibility. Our marketing efforts not only highlight craftsmanship but also encourage the commissioning of bespoke pieces.
Members are invited to participate in our prestigious exhibitions throughout the year, held in historic and culturally significant venues and each member receives a dedicated entry in the Makers’ Directory on our website, providing an online showcase for their work. Additionally, our social media platforms regularly feature members, amplifying their visibility to a wider audience.
Education: Inspiring Creativity and Craftsmanship
Education is at the heart of the Suffolk Craft Society’s mission, playing a vital role in our public engagement through exhibitions, our website, and social media platforms. By sharing knowledge, techniques, and insights into contemporary craft, we aim to inspire curiosity, appreciation, and hands-on involvement in the world of craftsmanship.
Many of our talented makers actively contribute to craft education in various ways:
Formal Teaching – Several members hold teaching positions in schools, colleges, and universities, passing on their expertise to the next generation of designers and makers.
Workshops & Classes – Others offer hands-on workshops and informal classes, providing opportunities for people of all skill levels to engage with traditional and contemporary craft techniques. Find details of workshops offered by members here >>>
Previously the Society collaboration with Framlingham College developing a studio visit programme for design scholars, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the working lives of professional makers. This initiative serves as a blueprint for future educational collaborations, fostering stronger connections between craft and education.
As we look ahead, we are committed to furthering these opportunities, encouraging creative learning and hands-on experiences that ensure fine craftsmanship continues to thrive for generations to come.