Making Dorset

Making Dorset launched in 2017 with the publication ‘Fifty Dorset Makers’. Produced in partnership with Evolver magazine, the book features 50 of Dorset’s finest designer makers working in ceramics, glass, paper, stone, textiles, wood, minerals and metals, with a foreword by Professor Simon Olding.

At its inception, Making Dorset opened to professionally and, or academically trained designers and makers who have established their practice in Dorset and who demonstrated a track-record in either, or both of, the public and private sectors, including trained or apprenticed emergent designers and makers. The group sought to share ideas and experiences, undertake critical reviews to explore the content as well as the processes associated with each individual's practice.  

In autumn 2024, the group reconvened with a major new exhibition at Sherborne House.

Making Dorset continues as a DVA-led initiative where craft, design and making have a separate focus and appreciation within DVA's delivery, with over 30 DVA Members affiliated with the group.