Quick links: our exhibitor directory, our downloadable catalogue, and our talks on demand programme. Our page on Artsy and our press release.

Design-Nation was a pioneer in 2004, joining the Crafts Council as they launched Collect. This now flagship event was then a brave new venture, with the admirable ambition of creating a platform for the very best in international contemporary craft and design, to connect to the most ambitious museum and gallery collections and the boldest private collectors. Design-Nation was present then and at the second edition in 2005, and is delighted to return now in 2021.

The Design-Nation membership network includes some of the most acclaimed and innovative designers and craftspeople across the UK. The portfolio’s high standards and integrity of design and making are ensured through selection by an independent expert panel which meets up to four times a year. Beyond that the Design-Nation team and its partners has considerable knowledge and expertise in event production, curation and maker development.

For Collect 2021 Design-Nation presents a curated selection of new and exceptional contemporary works by twenty makers, half of whom are new to this year’s event.  All of the selected makers demonstrate absolute dedication, amazing creativity and the levels of technical expertise and deep understanding of their chosen materials that visitors to this prestigious event have come to expect.

Makers in textile, fibre and paper comprise almost half of our Collect 2021 showcase, exhibiting wall-hung artworks, architectural interventions, luxury textiles for the home and upholstered furniture. Techniques include embroideries both colourful and subtle, handmade and machine rendered from Darren Ball, Emily Jo Gibbs and Jacky Puzey, pure and fresh origami folding by Fung + Bedford, dazzling printing by Michelle House, and weaving in an impressive variety of forms and materials by Margo Selby, Maria Sigma and Laura Thomas.

Work in a range of metals includes dramatic and original jewellery from Kate Bajic and Ella Fearon-Low, and clean-lined and beautifully detailed silver-smithed vessels from Holly Suzanna Clifford and Alex O’Connor. There are unique 3D and 2D artworks by Jacky Oliver (steel and enamel), Kim Sutherland (etched and collaged steel), and Hannah White, whose pioneering work crosses the boundaries of textile and metal, using plating and electro-forming.

Wooden furniture and decorative work is presented by Angus Ross  (steam-bending) and Christine Meyer-Eaglestone (marquetry), and leather worker Janine Partington will show the next iteration of her art. Design-Nation also presents impressive ceramic vessels by modern masters Linda Bloomfield and Sasha Wardell, tackling challenges in scale, glaze and form.

Our maker directory is here – find out more about their artworks, motivations and methodologies.

Discover our makers through our Design-Nation at Collect talk events – all available on demand, details here.

Download our Design-Nation at Collect 2021 Catalogue.

Want to know more or purchase works? Head over to our Artsy page for a curated selection of the best, or email our friendly team on welcome@designnation.co.uk.

Design-Nation has a long history and renowned track record of commitment to contemporary craft and design, and through its work gives much needed professional support to a highly diverse group of makers across the UK. In troubled times the beauty of the exceptional handmade object is held in more esteem than ever. Design-Nation is proud to present this curated selection of beautiful and striking works to please everyone.

Design-Nation: future thinking for craft, product and design.

The Design-Nation team is led by Clare Edwards, with Hayley Banks, Helen Kemp, Laura Jacometti, Liz Cooper and Molly Petts.

Text and images © Design-Nation and the individual artists.