Jewelwithy

A story of plants and people told through jewellery, by Anna Pope

24 September - 19 November 2022

Contemporary jeweller Anna Pope has been investigating the threatened craft of withy pots in the Southwest. A withy pot is a traditional trap used to catch crabs and lobsters made from natural materials, primarily willow branches, known as withies.

Styles differ between each location, due to many factors including the maker, terrain, tradition and materials used. Each pot holds important knowledge of the makers skills and strong connections and understanding of their natural surroundings which are passed down through the generations within their communities. Traditional pots are biodegradable and when put to work only last 1 year, once they are gone they leave very little trace.

The introduction of modern pots made from man-made materials has quickly put this traditional craft of hundreds of years on the Heritage Crafts Association Red List as critically endangered.

There are now very few withy pot makers left and in some locations the craft has died out completely, which leaves little time to record valuable information before it is lost.

Anna has created a collection intaglio prints and brooches in response to collaborative work to document the craft with Cornwall College, withy pot makers and members of their communities. The collection tells a story of the craft to help raise awareness.

Funnel brooch

Withy pot catkin brooch

Jewelwithy: Lobster Pot Weaving Demonstration with Tom Chambers

Saturday 29 October, 11am-4pm

Helston based withy pot maker Tom Chambers will be practicing his craft in a free demonstration in our Riverside Gallery. There will be an opportunity to participate in the weaving of a withy pot. Tom’s pots will also be available to buy. Come and learn more about the cultural history, stories, and traditions bound up with this ancient craft.

No booking required.

Jewelwithy exhibition film

Jewelwithy: Lobster Pot Weaving Demonstration with Sue & David Morgan

Friday 4th November, 11am-5pm

Withy pot makers Sue and David Morgan will be practicing their craft in a free demonstration in our Riverside Gallery.

Come and learn more about the cultural history, stories, and traditions bound up with this ancient craft.

No booking required.

Nigel Legge is an active withy pot maker in Cadgwith, Cornwall. This film was made by Cornwall College and Anna Pope as part of the Jewelwithy project.