London Craft Week Lands In The Capital

Several luxury brands are coming together from today for London Craft Week. The event, which will run until 10 May, aims to highlight the role of fine craftsmanship and give consumers a sneaky peek into the hidden world through which their products are made.

“Similar to fashion week, London Craft Week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on a particular on areas of expertise, using London as a global stage for creativity,” said Guy Salter, chairman of London Craft Week. “For brands who encapsulate exceptional, stand-out makers and materials, London Craft Week allows them to stand out from the crowd,” he added. With the help of partners, such as Vacheron Constantin and the Mayor of London, visitors will be given the chance to explore the effort and fine work that goes into creating many luxury products. Highlights of the week will include tours of craftsmen’s studios, workshops, galleries and shops, thus allowing people to experience the many different stages of the creative process. More in-depth seminars from the likes of Walpole will educate those wishing to go into the crafts industry about the process, whilst The Crafts Council will host the “What is Luxury?” exhibit, exploring the notion of our highly valued items.

Other notable luxury landmarks in London, such as Selfridges and Fortnum & Mason, will also be contributing to the week. “The Crafted at Fortnum & Mason features over 25 leading designer-makers of Walpole’s Crafted alumni and its class of 2014 through demonstrations and talks by glass artist Michael Ruh, conceptual milliner Emma Yeo, ceramicist Billy Lloyd and leather saddler Mia Sabel amongst others,” said Michelle Emmerson, chief executive officer of Walpole. “The showcase brings to life the breadth and depth of British craft. The exhibition will then continue for two months so that the public has time to plan a trip to make their bespoke orders from the cream of the UK’s craft-makers,” she added.

For more details and a program of the events, check out the London Craft Week website.