The Amelia Scott, hosted a lively Carve & Craft Weekend, celebrating the rich history and charm of Tunbridge ware. This event, held during National Craft Month, drew over 2,500 visitors and sparked a love for local craftsmanship among people of all ages.
Bringing Craftsmanship to Life
The Amelia teamed up with local artisans to create a fun-filled program of talks, tours, workshops, demonstrations, and activities for kids, all inspired by Tunbridge ware. The goals were simple:
- Encourage the community to get creative and connect with local heritage.
- Teach new audiences about Tunbridge ware, a craft at risk of being forgotten.
- Show off the intricate artistry and historical importance of Tunbridge ware.
Dying trade of Tunbridge Ware
Tunbridge ware, which dates back to the 1680s, started as decorative souvenirs for early tourists. Known for its intricate designs and later, Victorian-era inlaid mosaics, the craft struggled to keep up with changing tastes. Today, there's only one known maker left, making events like the Carve & Craft Weekend even more vital.
The Amelia: A Community Hub
The Amelia Scott has become a cornerstone of the community since its renovation, offering museum galleries, libraries, adult education, and more. This dynamic space hosts a range of cultural events, workshops, and services, making it a go-to place for enrichment and learning.
Supported by the Community
The transformation of The Amelia was made possible by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), with additional support from Arts Council England (ACE) and other generous donors. These funds allowed the extensive renovation of the former Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery, creating a vibrant cultural hub. Over the past five years, The Amelia's team has delivered a wide range of free community activities focused on local heritage and skill development.
Weekend Highlights
Visitors of all ages enjoyed a variety of activities:
- ‘Mini Maker’ Workshops by Ash & Co: Kids and parents crafted wooden characters in a fun woodworking workshop.
- ‘Tunbridge ware: An Interactive Experience’ by Genetic Moo: A selfie station transformed visitors into digital Tunbridge ware, complete with interactive games and print-at-home options.
- ‘Making Marquetry: A Demonstration’ by Simon Jewell: A mix of traditional woodcraft and modern techniques.
- ‘Carve & Craft Station’: Families made cup-and-ball games and yo-yos, inspired by The Amelia’s Tunbridge ware toy collection.
- Talks by Experts: Michael Howes and Dr. Ian Beavis shared insights into Tunbridge ware's history and craftsmanship.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Senior Collections Officer Heather Stracey showcased hidden treasures from The Amelia’s Museum and Archive collections, including works by 20th and 21st-century maker Peter Benjamin.
- “A great way to learn about the Amelia and its collections.”
- “My daughter loved making the toy and decorating it. A fantastic free event with lots to see.”
- “Very informative, with good visuals on the history and types of Tunbridge ware.”
- “Brilliant free activity, engaging for children.”
- “Friendly, helpful people and fun activities.”
- “Accessible for small children.”
- “Michael Howes's passion for his subject made his talk fascinating.”
Looking Forward
Thanks to the success of this year’s Carve & Craft Weekend, The Amelia is already planning an even bigger and better event for March 2025. Stay tuned for more ways to celebrate and engage with the rich heritage of Tunbridge ware.
For more information on our educational programs and upcoming events, visit The Amelia Scott.
The Amelia Scott is dedicated to enriching lives and inspiring learning through culture and community engagement.