special features

craftayrshire

Develop Craft Ayrshire was developed to create new opportunities for audiences in Ayrshire and Arran to see high quality contemporary crafts and to raise public understanding of the innovation, skill and time which goes into creating craft objects, contributing to an increase in public appreciation of the art form.

This is done through developing public access to contemporary craft exhibitions and educational programmes. Another main function of Develop Craft Ayrshire is to support the craft sector in Ayrshire and Arran by providing up to date knowledge, information and advice on issues ranging from business opportunities to art form development through training and educational projects.

Promotion of the makers in the area is also a priority, as is the attendance at specific retail and trade events both nationally and internationally.



Lise Bech Bracelets - photo by Shannon Tofts

What is Craft? Craft can be a confusing word. When you use it there is a strong possibility that the other person is thinking about something quite different to you.

One person imagines handmade one-off pieces while another thinks of stencilled furniture and stamps. And it doesn’t get any easier when you get beyond the word craft to a specific discipline such as ceramics, furniture and wood, glass, jewellery and metal work, paper, textiles, musical instruments and basket making, as again everyone will imagine something different.

Each maker works in a different way. Skilfully employing a range of techniques they create a variety of stunning objects which can be functional, decorative or both. Craft is what happens when a person with imagination and skill has the opportunity to be creative.