Andy Christian: 1954 - 2023
Andy had prepared us for his passing so it was not unexpected but still a shock. Andy died on the morning of Sunday 19 February.
Andy’s long association with Devon Guild of Craftsmen started in 1987 when he joined us as our first Director just after we took over Riverside Mill in Bovey Tracey, a rôle that was necessary to enable applications for funding from the then Crafts Council and other funding bodies. He came to us from a background in Higher Art Education in Cumbria, and the Lakeland Guild of Craftsmen.
Taking over a small staff he quickly created a thriving craft centre at the Guild’s newly purchased Riverside Mill in Bovey Tracey. We had recently acquired charity status and although we were very enthusiastic we needed organising. A total radical reorganisation of the building ensued – the gallery moved upstairs, the shop enlarged.
Immediately there was a stimulating programme of exhibitions with themes such as “Reigning Cats and Dogs”, “Fish and Ships” and not forgetting the Summer Exhibition in the early 90s using ladders to display the exhibits.
Andy, with the small staff at his disposal, had to turn his hand to many new skills. Cleaning out the waterwheel’s leat wearing Mike Skipwith’s waders – they leaked! Climbing up scaffolding to replace the newly installed gold-plated weathervane on the tower after a couple of local lads decided to remove it.
Fun was always a part of Riverside Mill and his love of fireworks led to the infamous horizontal firework display which cleared the old courtyard of guests in 30 seconds.
There were challenges and shortly after taking up the post there were financial and Charity Commission concerns for Andy and the directors. He was brilliant at involving Members and Friends to volunteer with the running of the Guild and to organise fundraising events: the auctions and Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Bearnes, garden parties, musical and sponsored events to name a few.
Andy’s own comments on his appointment: “The reasons why I took this job might seem to be somewhat perverse. It pays me less money, gives me less holiday, works me longer hours but it does give me a sense of excitement.” *
After nine years Andy decided to move on to ventures new as Manager of the Trading Company at Dartington Ciderpress.
The extent that Andy was appreciated by the Members was shown at his leaving presentation at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen 1996 AGM. A collection raised enough funds to commission a stone sundial from Member Ben Jones and a Friend’s Life Membership. A miniature chest of drawers was constructed by John Maltby and cards from the Members wishing Andy well were placed in the drawers.
Andy was never far away from the Guild making frequent visits, opening exhibitions, buying craft and helping to manage the David Canter Memorial Fund. In 2011 Andy, along with other committed Members, was made a Vice President of the Guild for his services to the organisation. Until he became unwell Andy briefly joined the board of Trustees and typical of his involvement with creativity he was working with Guild Members right to the end.
As our first ‘Director’ he has played a unique and valuable rôle in our evolution and his contribution will always be remembered.
The Guild, the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, and Make Southwest will miss Andy, his wisdom, his sincere, generous spirit and his unique insight into the craft world.
In his own words – “it’s a bugger!”
Malcolm Law, Maker Member, Vice President