Thursday, 09 May 2019 12:17 GMT

The art of letter cutting at London Craft Week

As part of this year’s London Craft Week, the Goldsmiths’ Centre will be celebrating the art of cutting letters onto metal, stone or glass in its exhibition entitled, ‘Inscribed: The Craft of Cutting Letters.’

Working in collaboration with The Hand Engravers Association and The Lettering Arts Trust, the free exhibition display a range of artists’ work alongside a programme of demos, guided walks, tours and workshops.

From signage and jewellery to decorative objects, the exhibit aims to tell the story of the UK’s most skilled craftspeople who are still keeping this ancient skill alive through their contemporary practice.

“Lettering is frequently invisible and taken for granted, but when lettering is regarded as an art in the hands of designers and craftsmen who care about form and composition it is elevated to a new level that captures the imagination,” says Sarah Harrison, executive director of the Lettering Arts Trust.

She continues: “‘Inscribed' is a marvellous opportunity for the Lettering Arts Trust to collaborate with esteemed partners - the Goldsmiths’ Centre and the Hand Engravers Association – during this year's London Craft Week and into the summer.

“This exhibition shows not only the remarkable skills, but also the inspiration and creativity of the most accomplished exponents of hand carving, engraving and precious metalwork who revel in inscriptions and turn words and phrases into breathtaking artworks.”

This exhibition shows not only the remarkable skills, but also the inspiration and creativity of the most accomplished exponents of hand carving, engraving and precious metalwork

Sally Dodson, associate manager of The Hand Engravers Association adds: “It has been a long-held ambition for the Hand Engravers Association to be part of the exciting celebration of creativity that is London Craft Week.

“We are delighted to be partnering with the Goldsmiths’ Centre who will enable us to show the talented skills of our apprentice and professional hand engravers to a new audience.

“It is thrilling to work with the Lettering Arts Trust; an organisation who clearly share our passion for supporting and promoting skilled artisans of heritage craft skills in a contemporary context.”

The free exhibition will run from April 30th until July 11th, 2019 in the Atrium of the Goldsmiths’ Centre, with the ticketed programme running from May 8th until the 10th when visitors will have a chance to try their hand at making.

The unique guided tour through London’s streets with City of London guide Tony Baxter takes place on May 10th for visitors to discover the rich heritage of letter-cut signage.

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