Meet the Maker Events at The Bluecoat Display Centre
In 2025, our Meet the Maker events will take place here on Saturdays throughout the year. Drop by between 2pm-4pm for an informal chat with talented makers, who will share insights into their work and occasionally demonstrate their techniques. No booking needed—just pop in and enjoy!
Saturday 22nd March, local ceramicist Sarah Kirk.
Sarah will be making one of her small textural vessels and is bringing examples of the metal elements she uses in her work, along with her sketch books to demonstrate her techniques and inspiration.
Saturday 5th April, artist and printmaker Elizabeth Willow.
Elizabeth is based in North Wales and makes intricate things from gathered materials, including paper, words, thread, and found objects both natural and unnatural, creating artist’s books, sculptures and installations.
Saturday 26th April, glass artist Will Shakspeare.
Will is going to be here all the way from Somerset! He takes his inspiration from the world around him. His surroundings and experiences are inextricably linked to his work and his wide range of different designs are constantly evolving.
Saturday 10th May, glass artist Verity Pulford.
Verity is based in North Wales and takes her inspiration from plant life- cryptogamic plants such as lichen, moss, algae, fungi. She is also interested in using the structures and textures of marine creatures and invertebrates such as sea urchins, sea stars, jellyfish, sea anemones and coral. Combining qualities of these plants and animal organisms in her sculptural glass works.
Saturday 24th May, enameller and silversmith Ruth Ball
Local designer enameller, Ruth Ball utilises the fusion of glass on metal to produce a diverse collection of products. These range in scale from fine jewellery pieces and bespoke objects to larger wall based artworks. Items are made as “one-offs” or in small batches as limited editions.
Saturday 7th June, jeweller Sam Holmes MMU graduate prize winner.
Sam is based in Manchester and creates stunning jewellery that beautifully bridges the gap between nature and craftsmanship. With his portable workbench in tow, he can set up shop wherever inspiration strikes. Weather permitting, Sam will set up his workbench in the tranquil Bluecoat Garden, showcasing his impressive jewellery techniques in an unforgettable outdoor setting.
5th July, Product designer Keeley Traae
Keeley is a design consultant, product designer and university lecturer based in Staffordshire. Her ‘hello beautiful’ collection began in 2020 during the lockdown. Keeley started to explore digital design technology to create her forms which are then 3D printed in her studio. She is enjoying developing her own aesthetic, inspired by her love for mid-century design blended with classic silhouettes and geometry found in nature.