Forging the Future of Craft: New Brewery Arts Champions Young Makers

Cirencester

New Brewery Arts is celebrating the next generation of craftspeople with a special event this May, marking the culmination of a year-long initiative to support young makers as they launch their careers in the UK craft industry.

Over the past year, we’ve worked with emerging makers nationwide—offering mentorship, residencies, internships, and exhibition opportunities—to equip them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the creative sector. Many of them, alongside key partners from Heritage Craft, local businesses, and cultural organisations, will be attending the event.

Thanks to an Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant, our programme has:
• Provided six young makers with mentoring from craft writer and curator Melody Vaughan.
• Hosted an Interior Design student from Bath Spa University for an internship with our exhibitions team.
• Supported Young Embroiderer of the Year, Beth Somerville, with a fully funded yearlong craft residency.
• Partnered with Cirencester College Art History students to create digital interpretations of the Museum and Art Swindon ceramics collection.
• Showcased GCSE and A-Level student artwork from Rendcomb College in a dedicated exhibition.
• Welcomed school and college groups for curated exhibition visits.

New Brewery Arts CEO Beth Alden says: “Craft is at the heart of what we do as a charity and ensuring its future means investing in young talent. It has been inspiring to work with so many young people—from those taking their first steps in craft to those beginning professional careers. We look forward to seeing how they shape the industry in the years to come."

Lithographer Samantha Thompson, whose work is featured in And The Work Goes On says:
“I am excited to be a part of this exhibition amongst other talented young crafts people and to have the support of Heritage Crafts and New Brewery Arts to showcase my lithography prints.

“I think it is really important to highlight the next generation of crafts people as many are making strides in their field but are struggling to be recognised for it. I hope this show encourages other young people to pick up a craft to continue traditions as well as bring something new into the fold,” she says.

Blacksmith Brân Davies says: “And The Work Goes On has been a fantastic opportunity to exhibit work amongst other young makers at New Brewery Arts. Sharing a gallery space with exhibits in all different kinds of media has been really rewarding, seeing the breadth of skills and innovative thinking of young artists.”

Exhibitors and mentees will be attending a public viewing of And The Work Goes On from 6-8pm on Saturday 3rd May, 2025.
 

 

More details about Forging the Future of Craft: New Brewery Arts Champions Young Makers (External Link)

 

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