QEST x SDC presents ‘Fresh Focus’ at Collect 2025

For the first time, the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) and the Society of Designer Craftsmen (SDC) will join forces to present ‘Fresh Focus’ at Collect 2025, celebrating the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expression. 

Held at Somerset House in London from 28 February – 2 March 2025, Collect is the leading international fair for contemporary craft and design. QEST will be returning to Collect for the fifth time, while SDC will be exhibiting for the first time. Both organisations present a joint mission to champion innovative practices of talented makers at all stages of their careers.

The QEST x SDC stand will be a special edition showcase for Collect 2025 – it will feature a diverse array of work by nine emerging and established craftspeople from both organisations.

The craftspeople featured comprise:
Christine Meyer-Eaglestone – Wood – SDC Member
Claire Ireland – Ceramics – SDC Member
Elizabeth Ashdown – Passementerie – QEST Adam Architecture Scholar
Epona Smith – Silversmith – QEST Pewterers’ Company Scholar
Fabrizia Bazzo – Glass – SDC Member
Kendall Clarke – Paper & Textiles – QEST Sanderson Design Co. Scholar and SDC Member
Laura Quinn – Glass – QEST Garfield Weston Foundation Scholar
Margaret Jones – Tapestry – QEST Garfield Weston Foundation Scholar and SDC Member
Samantha English – Metal – SDC Member

‘Fresh Focus’ will explore and reinterpret age-old techniques through a contemporary lens, showcasing disciplines often underrepresented in the UK’s craft industry such as tapestry weaving, marquetry and passementerie.

By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, ‘Fresh Focus’ aims to inspire dialogue about the value of heritage in contemporary society and the ongoing evolution of craft as an art form. This immersive showcase will serve as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and creativity, and the celebration of modern craftsmanship in a variety of forms.

28 February – 02 March 2025 (previews 26 & 27 February)
Somerset House, London, UK
Tickets are available via the Crafts Council website.