Join us for a museum talk with Mary Lewis, Head of Craft Sustainability at the Heritage Crafts Association, to learn more about endangered crafts past and present.
In this talk, Mary will introduce you to the traditional crafts most at risk of disappearing, highlighting the Red List of Endangered Crafts and exploring the challenges faced by contemporary makers. As you listen, you’ll be surrounded by rare examples of endangered crafts from our museum collection, including beautifully marbled historic books, an 18th-century State Bed showcasing the endangered art of passementerie, and handwoven tapestries dating back to 1660.
Mary will also discuss contemporary examples of these endangered crafts, currently on display in the Basketry: Rescuing, Reviving, Retaining exhibition in the Harley Gallery next door.
Mary Lewis
Mary Lewis is Head of Craft Sustainability at the Heritage Crafts Association and a skilled basket maker, with pieces featured in the Basketry: Rescuing, Reviving, Retaining exhibition. As Endangered Crafts Manager, she works to raise awareness, fund projects, and ensure the survival of heritage craft skills. Mary is also Chair of the Ironbridge Coracle Trust.
