Shoes made by hand using over 200 processes, a briefcase decorated with intricate cutouts and 3D handmade wallpaper are among the objects on show at The Harley Gallery, Welbeck from 2 April to 1 June.
Craft has started to appear on fashion runways, in designer shops and glossy magazines. It is becoming a new language for luxury, but what is it that makes us feel this way about craft?
Added Value? explores some of the different aspects of craft that make handmade products luxurious, from the materials and skill used in the making process to the experience of using the finished product.
Because of these qualities, international brands have started to work with craftspeople, such as Simon Hasan who has created bespoke mannequins for designer label Fendi.
These qualities are not just for the designer labels, but are found in all crafts. Whether selling their products on Bond Street or in Bassetlaw; craftspeople all add skill and creativity to what they make, creating a special product which has been thought about and cared about.
These qualities are also not only found in contemporary craft work. Through the centuries craftspeople have created products that are beautiful, luxurious and high end. Visit the Edward Harley: The Great Collector exhibition showing alongside Added Value? to see examples of fine decorative craft collected by the 2nd Earl of Oxford in the 17th century.
Visit The Harley Gallery, Welbeck from 2 April to 1 June 2014 to see luxury craft objects and discover how the handmade creates Added Value?
The Harley Gallery is on the A60 between Mansfield and Worksop, 10 minutes from the A1 and M1. Free entry and free parking. Visit www.harleygallery.co.uk for further information.
