The exhibition is a result of the first year of Craft School, Yinka's Challenge — a national programme for schools that challenges learners aged 5-16 to get making. Led by leading London-based artist Yinka Ilori, children from across the country took part in a schools’ challenge to craft new work in response to the themes of play, storytelling, and empowerment. Underpinned by Make First, the Craft’s Council’s craft pedagogy, the challenge placed materials into the hands of young people to encourage ‘thinking through making’.
At Craft School, visitors can see the winning work of learners and teachers on display, alongside objects from the Crafts Council’s Collection. There will be opportunities for children and families to make, play, get hands-on with objects from the collection and take part in discussions around the importance of craft in classrooms.
With opportunities for craft learning rapidly disappearing from our schools, Craft School is a celebration of the tenacity and creativity of teachers who carve out time and space for making in their classrooms against the odds. The work on display shouts from the rooftops about the joy of making and the importance of open-ended play with materials for children and young people.
Schools can visit the gallery alone for self-directed trips or book a facilitated visit with an introduction delivered by a Craft Council team member on the following days: 11, 12, 18, 19 July. To book your group visit please email: gallery@craftscouncil.org.uk
