FARNHAM’S annual celebration of its life as England’s craft town, October Craft Month, has set its makers a challenge this year.

In addition to a rich programme of activity with events taking place throughout the town and opportunities to see makers in action; they are creating a central digital installation bringing together makers past and present.

This year in celebration of the unique crafting heritage of the town with its beginnings in the 16th century bring together 1,500 makers, pieces, organisations and sites during craft month.

Each will be represented by a single image, displayed in a digital collage and available to view across craft town this October.

From huge handmade paper cut sculpture, to earthenware pottery, award winning silver craft and contemporary knitting, to installations, blown glass, and pieces made from refashioned broken pots, the images reflect the cutting edge and exploratory practise of makers in Farnham today while acknowledging the culture of craft that makes up the very fabric of the town.

The October Craft Month programme provides the opportunity to experience Farnham’s craft heritage with events at Farnham Museum, engage with the present day craft community with events at the Crafts Study Centre, Farnham Maltings and the New Ashgate Gallery and look to the future of craft at the University for the Creative Arts.

The programme exhibitions by celebrated makers such as Rita Parniczky, Mirka Janeckova and Olivia Walker and Bernard Leach. Workshops include Inspiring ideas and designs through play and the 21st Festival of Craft at Farnham Maltings.

Dr Outi Remes, director at the New Ashgate Gallery, said of craft month: “The New Ashgate Gallery is delighted to take part in the Craft Month and will be offering a busy programme of craft exhibitions and workshops for the community and artists.

“Our highlights include a mosaics showcase and workshops by the Farnham based Denise Jaques and the ‘Beautiful Form’ exhibition by jeweller Mirka Janeckova and ceramist Olivia Walker.

“In addition, there is work by more than 100 artists and makers on display in the gallery. Pop in to enjoy the best of emerging and established craft talent in the UK.”

Rebecca Skeels, jewellery and metalwork specialist tutor at University for the Creative Arts, said of craft month: “The friendly local community within Farnham is a fabulous place for creative people to start, develop and thrive within their chosen craft practices and that creativity to spread through all of the industries within the town.”

For more information visit the website www.farnham.gov.uk/discover/craft

town.