A SPOTLIGHT is to be shone on Scotland’s craft businesses from Shetland to the Solway Firth.
There are more than 2500 makers and craft businesses scattered across the country and many of their wares will be on show during Craft Week Scotland next month.
International demand is increasing for Scottish craft, with makers receiving critical acclaim and recognition through exhibitions and awards but Craft Scotland also wants to encourage shoppers in Scotland to discover the wealth of craft talent on their doorstep.
This year’s Craft Week Scotland will therefore highlight the craft retail destinations where shoppers can buy pieces made by Scotland’s contemporary craft community.
In honour of the occasion, a new online map has been created which pinpoints independent retailers such as Bard in Edinburgh and Double Door Studios in Dundee, as well as maker-led spaces including Wild Gorse Pottery in Glasgow (pictured above), Fabrik in Crail and Lindean Mill Glass in Galashiels. Gallery retail spaces around Scotland are also featured including Aberdeen Art Gallery, Gracefield Arts Centre in Dumfries and Dundee Contemporary Arts.
Many of Scotland’s makers are inspired by the country’s beautiful landscape, while others reimagine traditional crafts for the 21st century and many more embrace the opportunities for making with new technologies.
Sustainable practice, material provenance and technical excellence are key themes to be found in Scottish craft today, from baskets using locally sourced willow by Anna Liebmann to Jennifer Smith’s Seed Pod Vase made with native clays.
Showcasing all of this, the inaugural Craft Week Scotland looks to champion the country’s craft riches online and in person.
Irene Kernan, Craft Scotland director, said: “As our recent sector survey has shown, makers play a key role in boosting local economies across Scotland and vital to this are the retailers who provide an outlet for this exceptional talent whether in jewellery, furniture making, textiles, ceramics or other homewares.
“Craft retail destinations provide a vital platform for the nation’s makers and their ability to nurture and support contemporary craft make them must-visit destinations. I really recommend that you seek out these spaces and with their guidance discover all that Scottish craft has to offer.
“As shoppers this festive season search for more meaningful gifts, Scotland’s craft retailers are the perfect destination to discover beautiful objects handmade by skilled makers.
“Shoppers buying Scottish craft this season will find themselves with unique pieces, ethically made, good for the planet and the local economy.”
More information on Craft Week Scotland as well as a growing list of contemporary craft retailers is available at craftscotland.org.
