Collect 2022 - Inspired by Nature

Last week I attended the impressive Collect 2022, London. Run by the Crafts Council, it is a gathering of UK and international galleries showcasing some of the finest contemporary craft in the world to an audience of collectors and first time buyers.

Rosy Greenlees, Executive Director and Andrew Morlet, Chair of the Crafts Council explain: 'the founding ethos behind Collect remains that the fair marks a moment to celebrate the newest and finest contemporary craft coming into the market, with most of the work made in the last few years and much made especially for the fair. So, for erstwhile collectors and first-time buyers alike, the fair remains a tantalising project.'

Somerset House with it's rich history as a home to Kings, Queens, Dukes, art institutions and government departments, played host to Collect 2022.  It's 18th century neo-classical architecture and splendid courtyard providing a magnificently contrasting stage from which to sell contemporary craft.

If the word craft has ever had negative connotations for you (homespun oldy woldy), then think again. Moving through East, South and West wings, wooden-floored rooms were filled with galleries presenting jaw-dropping, high-end, art, ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery and installations made skilfully by the  artist's fair hands.

Pieces were made from materials as diverse as glass and fleece and more often than not from natural materials. In evidence was the close relationship between crafters and environment - one of pre-industrial harmony and ancient ritual.  Natural materials had been manipulated by hand using age old practices and tools into thought provoking pieces.

Satisfyingly, the influence of nature weaved through every room. Represented by Scottish contemporary glass gallery and studios, North Lands Creative were Nancy Sutcliffe and Verity Pulford. 

Nancy is a contemporary glass engraver and gilder. Inspired by natural forms, she applies highly decorated gold leaf to glass engravings.  A glass bowl featured a kaleidoscope of gold butterflies, another a swarm of gold bees on a honeycomb.

John Makepeace OBE

Mark Ricourt