In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have postponed our international craft symposium ‘Old stories, new narratives: sustainability, identity and collaboration’ and are making plans for dates in 2021. We are also exploring alternative delivery formats as our aim is to enable makers and professionals in the craft sector, specifically the territories we have worked in (Scotland, Mexico, Thailand and Canada) to engage and contribute. We will work within national and international public health and government guidance to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in the event is the priority. Thanks to everyone who enabled us to get the event thus far and who has expressed an interest. We aim to be in touch soon!  

Our international craft symposium was due to take place across 3 days in July 2020 at Lyth Arts Centre, Scotland’s most northerly main land arts centre. This is a summary of what we had planned and will build on when we reschedule the event.

Makers from all fields of craft practice, plus curators, historians, theorists and researchers are invited to attend and engage. Old stories: new narratives is an opportunity for thinking about the future of making practices and process through sharing new ideas about craft practice, research-in-progress and case studies concerning both maker-led and theoretical strategies and what these might have to offer in a global context.

The programme of activity across the three days includes the private view of Meet, Make, Collaborate an exhibition of new work (day 1), symposium (day 2) and skills sharing workshops led by Scottish and international makers (day 3). All activity investigate themes of sustainability, identity and collaboration and draws on a range of recent international collaborations.

A number of ticket options, full and concession, are available to attend to suit your interests and availability:

• Exhibition+Symposium+Workshop, days 1-3
• Exhibition+Symposium, days 1 & 2
• Workshops, day 3

All tickets include buffet lunches / dinners, plus all day refreshments and free return coach transfers appropriate to the programme schedule.

Applied Arts Scotland Members are eligible for a 20% discount on all tickets – with the discount code sent directly to members. If you wish to apply to become a Member and therefore access discounted tickets please visit the How to Join & Benefits page of our website.

Image: Peedie Beach, near Dunnet, Caithness, photographer Lucy Woodley