70 Years of Making

ExhibitionRiverside MillRiverside Gallery

2 Jan

The story of the Devon Guild of Craftsmen

This exhibition celebrates the rich and evolving journey of the Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

Founded in 1955 by a small group of visionary makers, the Guild began as a collective of artists and craftspeople dedicated to raising the profile of contemporary craft in the Southwest of England. Over the decades, it has grown into a nationally respected organisation, supporting hundreds of professional makers and inspiring generations through exhibitions, education, and community engagement.

From its early days touring around rural Devon, to its establishment at the historic Riverside Mill in Bovey Tracey, the Guild has been at the heart of the region’s creative life.

This exhibition traces its journey - through objects, photographs, and archival material, revealing not just the story of an organisation, but of a wider movement; one that champions the handmade, values skill and innovation, and places craft at the centre of cultural life.