contemporary craft
At the centre of craft practice, both antique and contemporary, is a handmade object which is defined by a relationship to functional or utilitarian products. Whether ceramics, metalwork, or weaving, contemporary crafts self-consciously separate themselves from mass production, instead creating individual pieces that display the exceptional skills of the maker. At Mayfair Gallery, we are proud to represent an eclectic array of contemporary craft practices.
Historically, craft has been viewed as a separate entity from art. Since the 18th century, ‘high art’ (painting/sculpture/drawing etc.) was distinguished from utilitarian craft, as the functional nature of objects like vases and textiles meant that they were not seen to qualify as ‘proper’ artworks. Contemporary craft practitioners challenge this notion, creating stunning, creative objects that are works of undoubtable artistic value.
As the boundaries between art and objects become more blurred, craft makers also reimagine the traditional functions of their items, crafting pieces which can be used in a multitude of different capacities. Their creations leave the assigning of purpose to the object’s owner, encouraging us to stretch the limits of our imagination.
From vases to tableware, Mayfair Gallery’s collection of contemporary craft objects is united by extraordinary craftsmanship and innovative design.
