90th Anniversary Exhibition of the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen 1933-2023

Crafts in Gloucestershire have a long history based on traditional handwork and the inspiration of designer-makers from the Arts and Crafts movement: Gimson and the Barnsleys who settled in Sapperton in 1894, the radical Whiteway Colony founded in 1898, and C. R. Ashbee whose Guild of Handcraft moved from London’s East End to Chipping Campden in 1902.

Craft guilds have existed since medieval times as a way of regulating quality and passing on skills between generations. Designing and making can be a lonely process so being part of a group provides fellowship and opportunities to exchange ideas, ask for advice and develop projects with like-minded people. Craft guilds can enable makers to make a living and sell their work directly to those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and design.

This exhibition will celebrate the people, their stories and work from when the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen was set up in 1933 throughout the 90 years including rarely seen examples of textiles, metalwork, jewellery, glass, ceramics, baskets, leather and furniture by past Guild members.

This exhibition has been curated by the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen and was previously on display at the Museum in the Park Stroud.