This summer, Suffolk Craft Society returns to the magnificent National Trust Ickworth Estate for our annual exhibition, bringing together an inspiring collection of contemporary craft created by more than 40 talented SCS makers.
In the West Wing Gallery visitors can discover an extraordinary variety of work across ceramics, glass, jewellery, furniture, sculpture, printmaking, wood, basketry, leather and textiles. From beautifully functional pieces designed to be used and enjoyed every day to expressive and highly individual works of art, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, skill and imagination of our members.
This year, the exhibition also extends into Ickworth’s main house, where a selection of Suffolk Craft Society makers have created contemporary pieces inspired by Ickworth’s collections and the tastes, interests and ambitions of the Hervey family. Displayed amongst the historic collections, these new works create a fascinating connection between Ickworth’s past and contemporary craft today.
Clare Gaylard has created glass fish and jewellery inspired by the Silver Fish collection, while Diane Levett has also drawn on this collection to create containers combining glass and silver. Hassina Khan’s glass fan takes its inspiration from the Lady Geraldine collection, while Heidi McEvoy Swift has created a collection of boxes using fabrics and natural materials, responding to both Lady Geraldine and Silver Fish collections.
New member and textile artist Juliet Lockhart has created a stitched portrait inspired by the Earl Bishop collection, while Mary Anstee-Parry has produced two aprons in response to the Dolccia collection. Pamela Schomberg completes the group with a collection of spoons inspired by Ickworth’s historic silver collection.
Together, these specially created works offer a contemporary response to Ickworth’s history and collections, encouraging visitors to look afresh at both the historic objects and the new pieces they have inspired. Visitors are invited to explore the house to discover the works within their historic surroundings whilst also visiting the West Wing Gallery to enjoy the wider exhibition.
As with all Suffolk Craft Society exhibitions, visitors can expect work of the highest quality, with plenty to inspire established collectors as well as anyone who simply appreciates beautifully designed and expertly made objects.
Follow us on social media over the coming weeks for glimpses of work in progress, introductions to some of the makers taking part and a closer look at the exhibition as it takes shape. You can also discover the full list of participating members here >>
We look forward to welcoming you to Ickworth very soon.
Share this post: