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Be inspired and uplifted by the beauty and skill on display at Cheltenham’s contemporary furniture exhibition. Over 70 small designer-maker workshops from across the British Isles exhibiting around 300 pieces of their newest work.

 

Furniture aficionados and those who appreciate fine craftsmanship in decorative arts will have their appetites amply served once again this August at the largest and most eclectic exhibition of contemporary, bespoke, designer – maker furniture in the UK.  This outstanding event enables you to meet renowned craftsmen face to face and learn about the intricacies of their trade. The exceptional exhibition also includes selected works from leading artisans in disciplines such as sculpture, jewellery and silver that beautifully complement the furniture.

 

In this special 25^th anniversary year a new initiative will shine a light on the very best emerging designers as a number of furniture schools will be showcasing the work of their students, alongside a solid core of well-established and respected makers within the field. This combination of ‘new’ and ‘old’ is set to create an exciting and unique display.  Exhibition director Jason Heap has always been keen to offer opportunities to help the next generation to establish themselves and believes that: “The quality of training being offered today is exceptional and I am confident that visitors will be blown away by the standards at which these new designer-makers are already working.”

 

The exhibition boasts a fantastic array of unique, diverse pieces and with styles ranging from simple and sleek to flourishing and fancy there is plenty to suit all tastes.  This year sees the inclusion of work by established makers Marc Fish, Matthew Burt, and Waywood as well as the last pieces completed by the late David Savage.  Meanwhile, new exhibitors such as Jonathan Vaiksaar, Richard Frost and Hyde and Gallagher will certainly not disappoint. Stewards and a selection of exhibitors will be on hand to advise visitors each day, discuss the work exhibited and possible commissions.

 

Several fantastic awards return again to help promote and support all areas of the bespoke furniture movement, from students and new makers to British timber and design excellence. There are some stunning entries as usual and it will be fascinating to see who the judges select, their reasons for their decisions and most importantly whether you agree!

 

The magnificent neoclassical exhibition venue of Thirlestaine Long Gallery is set in the elegant surroundings of Cheltenham Spa and the Cotswolds, making a visit to Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design the perfect excuse for a few days away in this unique and picturesque area.

 

Venue: Thirlestaine Long Gallery, Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 7LD

Open: Daily from 10am until 4pm (incl. Bank Holiday Monday and Sundays).

Exhibition Entry Price: Adults £7, U16’s £3.50

Exhibition Catalogue Price: £5 (£7 in advance by post)

 

For more details please visit the

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design website