From May 9 to 13, 2018, London Craft Week 2018 will offer the opportunity to explore the capital’s most creative spaces – from the smallest off-the-beaten-track atelier to the storied livery halls of ancient makers’ guilds and the shop floors of luxury retailers to the Houses of Parliament. One of the core goals of London Craft Week is to celebrate and support Britain’s thriving community of independent makers, with more than 275 taking part in this year’s festival.
Demonstrations, Workshops, Talks, Interviews and Discussions
Launched in 2015 and now in its fourth edition, London Craft Week is the only festival of its kind in the world. Events include behind-the-scenes demonstrations, hands-on craft workshops and a program of talks, interviews and discussions featuring some of the most fascinating individuals working in global craft today. This year, 49% of 2017’s participants will return, with 51% of the festival’s content being entirely new for 2018.
During the exciting craft week, visitors might learn the intricacies of Swiss horology, British millinery and Danish ceramics. They can also blend their own fragrances, print their own books and craft their own tableware. Others may hear the stories of crafted works and iconic luxury products direct from their makers.
More Than 200 Events Focusing on Vibrant UK Craft Scene
Spanning a total of 227 events, London Craft Week 2018 features 70 exhibitions, 41 workshops, 87 talks and 61 live demonstrations – all focused on the vibrant modern-day craft scene in Britain and beyond.
The disciplines range from jewelry and leather craft to printmaking and carpentry. They involve established makers of global standing including Tom Dixon, Bill Amberg and Georg Jensen. A couple emerging talents are ceramic artist and Woman’s Hour Craft prize winner Phoebe Cummings and the 2018 Arts Foundation Award winner and The New Craftsmen glassblower Jochen Holz.
Full Program Features Many Free Events
By going beyond the static beauty of an object to the dynamic story behind its making, London Craft Week aims to highlight and celebrate every dimension of craftsmanship: material and technique, talent and imagination.
Taking place at venues throughout the city, some London Craft Week 2018 events and experiences are ticketed. Most are free, and many are held on a drop-in basis. For the full list of events, see the London Craft Week program.