Yahoo Finance Inside Artefact, London's newest contemporary craft fair
Artefact is a new event that celebrates contemporary craft in all its forms, highlighting up-and-coming makers, spotlighting artisanal techniques and acting as a forum for conversation around its role in modern life.
Opening on 22 June, the week-long fair offers an opportunity to see work from artisans represented by leading craft galleries, including Vessel Gallery, Seeds, Cavaliero Finn, Cube Gallery, Ruup & Form and Jaggedart.
A diverse array of techniques, styles and disciplines will be on display from both established names and emerging talent, from metalwork, glass, textiles, and ceramics to more unusual mediums, including recycled materials, grass and wax.
As part of the show, graduates of the 2019 Crafts Council Hothouse Programme will present Form Made From, a capsule exhibition curated by renowned curator Brian Kennedy.
Highlights include Charlotte Kidger, who uses plastic powder leftover from the 3D printing process to create her works, and woven textile artist Dalia James, whose geometric designs draw inspiration from the Bauhaus movement.
There's also be an unmissable programme of talks that delve into the world of contemporary craft. Chaired by writer and podcaster Grant Gibson, the line-up of speakers features prominent names within the craft industry, including Annie Warburton, CEO of Cockpit Arts, leather expert Bill Amberg, artist/designer Simone Brewster and designer Mac Collins.
Throughout the week, makers from the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting excellence in British craftsmanship through training and education, will host live demonstrations. Look out for bespoke globe maker Johnathan Wright, leatherworker Frances Pinnock (main image) and slate-carver Zoe Wilson.
Elsewhere, the Design Centre's showrooms will open their doors to reveal how craft sits at the heart of their businesses and products via a trail of artisan talks, demos and displays.
Artefact takes place from 22 to 29 June 2021 at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, Lots Rd, Fulham, London SW10 0XE
