Present Makers 2016 is a vibrant selling exhibition presenting a new selection of craft makers whose work highlights the skill and diversity of craft across the South West region.

Selected from an open call, Present Makers 2016 gives both established and emerging designer makers the opportunity to showcase their work in the wonderful setting of Elmfield House, the former home and studio of artist Thelma Hulbert.

Unique examples of textiles, jewellery, wood, ceramics and furniture will be on display with a range of prices to suit anyone looking for the ideal Christmas gift.

Featured this year is the East Devon-based ceramic designer, Jo Whiteley who creates beautiful hand-thrown stone ceramics in a range of vibrant colours. Jo explained,

“I am a craftsperson first and foremost. Beginning with the actual making of the clay itself and ending with a beautiful and more importantly, useful piece of pottery. When I open the kiln after a gloss firing it still feels like opening my presents on Christmas day as a child. “

Rosie Brewer is a designer-maker specializing in woodwork.

She explained, "Being a natural material, the wood already has its own history before I use it. Having come from a tree which has been growing for many years, it shows signs of its previous life. I use all of these marks to help dictate the sizes and shapes of the work I make.”

Elin Horgan is a jewellery designer from Bristol whose striking, hand-formed silver jewellery is inspired by architecture, abstract forms and bold shapes. She aims to create design-led collections that can be worn every day, but last forever.

Visitors searching for Christmas ideas can also take the opportunity to peruse the THG Shop. It stocks the best local artists’ prints and crafts alongside a popular selection of Tate art books, diaries, calendars and gifts as well as unusual Christmas and greetings cards.

Present Makers 2016 (12 November – 24 December 2016): a selling exhibition of contemporary craft from the South West

This exhibition is kindly sponsored by Beviss & Beckingsale solicitors