Making Space is delighted to invite you to a new maker development event we’re hosting; GUILDED CONVERSATIONS  is an opportunity to come together in a relaxed format to explore the purpose and function of maker collectives, such as craft guilds, associations and studio groups. The event will ask what role they have to play in the contemporary craft infrastructure. Surviving successfully in a climate where craft is under valued and under represented is challenging and a key element of the event will be how designers/makers organise themselves and connect with eachother and the wider public.

The discussion will be held at Winchester School of Art on Thursday 19 September 2019 from 10.30am-4pm. We will talk about how these different communities relate to each other and how they can collectively contribute to the contemporary craft infrastructure in the region. We hope to connect individual makers and groups to enable their voices to be amplified and heard. Ideas will be explored and questions raised through facilitated small group discussions. If time permits, there will be a chance to ask your own questions through a panel discussion and a Q&A session at the end.

Guilded Conversations is a Making Space initiative in association with Arts Council England, Hampshire County Council and Winchester School of Art.