MAKE Southwest

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Bookbinding and furniture making, silversmithing and ceramics, MAKE Southwest, is a well-established charity championing contemporary craft in Devon. Formerly known as the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, MAKE Southwest invites its 120,000 yearly visitors in, whether it’s to browse their three galleries through one of the 20 exhibitions they put on annually or take part in workshops, talks or meet the maker sessions – all their activity is centered on building awareness and appreciation of the crafting community.

Founded in 1955 by a passionate group led by Edward Baly, MAKE Southwest supports over 300 makers, offering them opportunities for professional development, exposure, and sales through its retail gallery. As well as showcasing artist and makers’ work, the charity has a strong focus on education, with inclusive workshops and outreach programmes for young people and community groups.

How did MAKE Southwest develop over the Programme?

CEO Laura Wasley is concentrating on a broader and more integrated commercial strategy within the MAKE Southwest vision. Given the challenging funding environment facing the arts, her approach aligns funding with revenue growth by developing retail opportunities for crafts and optimising building use. Additionally, a strategy for audience engagement is being crafted to identify key audiences, boost awareness, enhance participation, and attract broader support from patrons, volunteers, and partners to sustain the charity.

2023/ 2024 Highlights

  • Developing new retail opportunities for crafts
  • Optimising the under-utilised building space
  • Creating a colourful calendar of events and opportunities

Where they’re setting their 2025 sights

The organisation has outlined a comprehensive six-year strategic direction to guide its future focus. Central to this plan is the development of an income-generating strategy that includes launching a new online retail platform while increasing regional membership. Alongside this, there are plans to introduce a new wholesale charity card range by 2025 and develop three new studios by 2027.

Growing with Creative UK

“Arts organisations have faced tough times with funding—it’s a fiercely competitive landscape, and resilience is essential. Collaborating with Creative UK has encouraged us to think more ambitiously about how to fund our exciting plans and support our membership on this journey. We are proud to be uniquely rooted in the Southwest.” Laura Wasley, CEO