The Crafts Council’s new CraftCube programme offers a new way to see and learn about contemporary craft by offering visitors a virtual experience of makers’ studios and the chance to interact with craft objects. CraftCubes move away from the traditional exhibition format and offer a walk-in, immersive experience.
On entering the free-standing, three metre squared cube, visitors can see craft in the form of real objects and films, hear about craft in the form of maker interviews, and in some instances interact with craft with certain pieces on open display. This exciting way of exploring craft will focus on two aspects.
CraftCube: Collection which will showcase objects from the Crafts Council’s own permanent collection and CraftCube: Research which will champion innovative and cutting-edge craft being made by Research Fellows from universities across the UK.
The first two CraftCube:Collection displays will focus on glass maker Angela Jarman’s piece ‘Nap’ (2008) and ceramic maker Merete Rasmussen’s ‘Twisted Grey Loop’ (2008), both recently acquired for the Crafts Council Collection. Large-scale audiovisuals feature panning shots of the maker’s studio and of the techniques involved in making the objects on display bringing the whole making process to life for visitors. The first CraftCube:Research is developed in partnership with the Culture Lab, University of Newcastle, and will focus on the work of Research Fellow Dr Jayne Wallace.
Her recent research into memory and memory loss with the Alzheimer’s Society has resulted in jewellery that uses digital technology not as a design tool but as a way to reflect the complexities of memory loss. Visitors will be able to interact with the objects on display giving them the opportunity to discover the important roles jewellery and technology can play in the lives of people living with this condition. CraftCubes are portable experience spaces that can be hired for just two weeks and so they can provide a unique cultural addition to a variety of institutions ranging from galleries, universities and public libraries to corporate environments and festivals. CraftCube will increase access to contemporary craft and present new and exciting work in thought-provoking and dynamic ways. Via:[DESPOKE]
Website:www.craftscouncil.org.uk
