In the year of the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One, Highlights Contemporary Craft tour addresses the pertinent theme of conflict, which affects our communities locally, nationally and internationally. In rural environments issues of conservation versus agriculture and industry, of rewilding versus farming are often in the news. In the global environment the devastating effect of war on individuals and communities and culture and the subsequent refugee crisis; and finally, conflicts in relationships and families, personal and professional.

Our artists are carefully selected to bring you the most exciting work being made on the contemporary art scene in the UK and abroad. They include:

Conrad Atkinson – Ceramic Land Mine
Paul Scott – Cumbrian Blue(s) Ceramics
Mark Gibbs – Mixed Media Sculptures
Mujahid Abu Aljoud – Film
Sumi Perera – Mixed Media Assemblages
Laura Moreton-Griffiths – Canvas Weapon Replicas and Film
Elisabeth Turrell – Enamel and Mixed Media
Morwenna Catt – Textile Installation
Eva Mileusnic – Ceramic Installation
Rhiannon Lewando – Earthenware and Porcelain
Mathew Day – The Sculptural potential of prosthetic limbs
Johanna Tornqvist – Project Precious Trash

For the first time, we will also be collaborating with Aileen Brindle of ‘f.o.a.k’ who has worked in the international craft sector for over 30 years. Together we have curated a collection of global handmade design connected to the theme of craft and conflict. This will include work from refugees affected by conflict supported by the UNHCR MADE51 programme.

Venues and dates

8 – 19 September The Old Courthouse, Shap, Cumbria CA10 3NL
Open 10am – 5pm Tel: 01931 716273

22 – 29 September The Forum, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 1HH
Open 10am – 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am-4pm Saturday, closed Sunday.
Tel: 01229 820000

6 -13 October The Maritime Centre, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, North’land NE64 6DB
Open 10am – 4pm Tel: 01670 811951

15 – 21 October St. Mary’s Church, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria LA6 2AU
Open 10am – 4pm Tel: 015242 71320

3 – 11 November (weekends only) Bowlees Visitor Centre, Newbiggin, Barnard
Castle, Co. Durham DL12 0XE 10.30am to 4pm Tel: 01833 622145

13 – 21 November, The Witham Barnard Castle, Co. Durham DL12 8LY
Open 10am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday. Tel: 01833 631107

Also Designer Makers Market Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 November 10am-4pm

23 – 25 November St. Thomas’ Church Hall, Stanhope, Co. Durham DL13 2UE
Open 10am – 4pm

An exciting programme of school workshops, demonstration days and masterclass workshops support the exhibition at each venue.

For further information on the programme of masterclasses and to book

click here