Careers in Craft: Getting Back on Track

Article Added: 03/03/2009 16:22:20
If you are finding it hard to exhibit, need to test out a new idea, find a new sales direction or just work out where you are going then the Devon Guild of Craftsmen has a great opportunity for you. Their critical review day is a unique opportunity to have work and ideas reviewed and gain expert feedback from a panel of professional artists, educators and curators in craft: Paul Harper, Helen Carnac and Mary La Trobe-Bateman.

Paul’s background is in furniture design and making and he has worked in arts management since 1999. Helen Carnac is an artist and educator who has won a number of awards as a freelance enameller. Helen has exhibited throughout the world and is currently working as a senior lecturer in silversmithing and jewellery mixed media at London Metropolitan University. Mary La Trobe-Bateman is a freelance curator, writer and lecturer in the applied arts with an extensive knowledge of exhibiting and commissioning craft.

The day is hosted in association with the Contemporary Craft Fellowship Scheme, a pilot project formed to support business and innovation in South-West based contemporary craft. The scheme aims to reach as many makers as possible; therefore priority for the Critical Review Day will go to makers who have not benefited from the scheme before.

Each maker will be given a 40-minute time slot to discuss a body of work or new idea. Initially they will give a presentation, identifying points they would particularly like to discuss with the group, and then the idea will be opened up to the panel and rest of the group. The day is completely confidential and ownership of ideas and work discussed is retained by the individual maker and cannot be discussed outside the meeting without prior agreement ie if one of the panel knows someone who may be able to help they would need permission to make the introduction.

The Critical Review Day is taking place on 22 April 2009 at the Town Hall in Bovey Tracey from 10-5.30. Tickets for the event are priced at £15 and only 10 places are available. The scheme is open to anyone in the South West who has been consistently working in their chosen craft for more than seven years. Tickets need to be purchased in advance and can be obtained by calling 01626 832223 or by emailing devonguild@crafts.org.uk