Craftsense

Celebrating the links between eighteenth century industry, Craftsense features commissioned work and examples of the best craftwork being made today alongside historical items from regional collections.

With a variety of interactives including audio sound-bites, handling materials and an IT kiosk to explore, there is plenty to interest all ages.

The Displays

Central to the exhibition are the popular and world-renowned Bilston enamels, the majority from Wolverhampton Arts and Museums Collection. Many of the pieces on display have received conservation and restoration work from Jackfield Conservation Studios, to preserve our local heritage. 

Fine examples of ceramics from Wedgewood and Bilston’s own Myatt and Bew are on display, as well as glass, leather and metalwork on loan from venues around the region.  There are also displays of contemporary loans which change on a regular basis. 

Craft Commissions

The exhibition features four commissioned craft pieces by John Grayson, James Griffin, Laura Potter and Karina Thompson. These works were made in celebration of the variety of skills practised in this area for over three hundred years. Each unique piece takes its inspiration from historic objects in our collection.

These handmade works were also designed to be handled and touched by our visitors, providing a sense of the historic objects on display.

Acknowledgements

Craftsense has been made possible with funding from Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England, Wolverhampton City Council and the West Midlands Hub of Museums through MLA England.  Thanks also go to Bilston and Battersea Enamels Ltd for their support.