Legacy in Making

This new exhibition at Somerset Rural Life Museum celebrates the remarkable breadth of contemporary and historic craft in Somerset. Bringing together former members of the Somerset Craft Guild, master craftspeople and the 2025 Somerset Art Works × Somerset Craft Guild Emerging Maker Bursary artists, the exhibition reveals a vibrant creative community shaped by heritage, experimentation and deep connection to place.

Across glass, textiles, photography, jewellery, wood, leather, ceramics, basketry and metalwork, the makers explore enduring themes of history, heritage and the natural world. Many embrace sustainable materials, working with reclaimed or recycled metals, natural fibres, and environmentally responsible processes. Traditional craft knowledge sits alongside fine art influences and contemporary design.

Alongside these new works, the exhibition also includes a small selection of historic objects from the Somerset Craft Guild archive, offering insight into the Guild's legacy and the evolution of craft in the county over nearly a century.

Developed in partnership with Somerset Art Works, this exhibition celebrates the excellence of past makers while championing the next generation of craftspeople shaping Somerset's creative future.

Header image: Ivor Hancock at Musgrove Willow, July 2013 by Pauline Rook.

This exhibition is FREE with Museum Unlimited/normal admission applies.

Adult: £11

Concessions: £9

Child (aged 5-17) £5.25

Child (under 5): FREE

Somerset Rural Life Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm.