Next week, London Craft Week’s celebration of making and exceptional craftsmanship returns to the city for its 12th year.
From the 11th of May until the 17th, the festival blends high-fashion collaborations with traditional heritage skills, expect collaborations between major brands and auction house collaborations as well as a celebration of traditional British craftsmanship.
Here’s a round up of the key happenings to have on your radar.
JW Anderson
Founded in 2008 Jonathan Anderson, JW Anderson has carved out a unique space in the luxury market by blurring the lines between high fashion and traditional craft. Anderson’s philosophy is rooted in the objecthood of clothing, treating each piece as a curated work of art.
Artisanal craftsmanship is a core pillar of the brand, with Anderson frequently collaborating with artisans to ensure the tactile quality of his garments remains central to the brand’s identity.
The brand will be hosting a live-making exhibition at its Pimlico Road store, where an artisan will be producing a new piece of work on-site, specifically commissioned for the festival. The store’s neighbours along Pimlico Road will also be taking part in the festival, including Corston and Soane Britain.
Sotheby’s
This year, Sotheby’s will be hosting the third edition of Secret Ceramics as part of its Crafted programme at their New Bond Street Galleries. The collaboration with FiredUp4 features 100 ceramic works from both established and emerging artists which will be sold as part of an anonymous auction.
Their programme includes a full roster of talks, events, exhibitions and demonstrations from master framers, needleworkers and conservators, all focused on celebrating the traditions of craft.
You can view the full line up here.
Maison Diptyque
Maison Diptyque is a premier French luxury house that has evolved into a global icon of perfumery and home ambiance. It is celebrated for its artistic heritage, minimalist aesthetic, and ability to capture specific memories and places through scent.
Their event schedule revolves around the intersection of their ethos of The Art of Living with London’s celebration of craft. The highlights include workshops with Claire Coles to explore the intricate craft behind Diptyque’s iconic designs, where guests can create their own Diptyque inspired collage.
Leatherseller’s Hall
Leatherseller’s Hall presents Living Legacies, a showcase that highlights the preservation of traditional British craftsmanship. Designed to bring attention to “red-list” endangered crafts, which are skills that are at risk of disappearing without new apprentices.
The pop-up exhibition will feature live demonstrations that will allow the masters of rare skills to connect with the public, including passementerie, pigment making, and saddlery.
As part of the City of London trail, The Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers will also be hosting live demonstrations of marbling, gliding and calligraphy. Offering a front row seat to watch the masters at work.
Historical Sites
Craft Week provides a great opportunity to explore iconic historical spots. The Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul’s Cathedral will all be open for rare tours that are focused on architectural restoration.
Oxo Tower Wharf
If you’re looking to buy special pieces straight from the artisans who made them, be sure to head to the South Bank, where Oxo Tower Wharf is hosting two floors of open studios, showrooms and shops.
As well as allowing you to commission pieces straight from the makers, this venue is also hosting demonstrations, workshops and exhibitions, with the line up featuring a jewellery showcase from Loveness Lee and Carréducker, bespoke shoemakers.
Feeling spoilt for choice? Check out the full programme here.
Image credit: Vogue, London Craft Week, Claire Coles, London Perfect,
