Make Hauser & Wirth Somerset is a destination for contemporary making and the crafted object, showcasing work from the best emerging and established makers both nationally and internationally. All works are for sale.

Since its launch in 2018, the gallery has presented work by over fifty artist-makers, providing valuable insights into the working processes and rich narratives of their practices. Make occupies two rooms of a Georgian townhouse at 13 High Street, Bruton with Jacqueline Moore as Director. There is an emphasis on pieces commissioned specifically for Make, some of which are created in response to Somerset and the South West, employing locally sourced materials. To coincide with the diverse and collaborative exhibition program, the gallery hosts a number of participatory experiences including talks, workshops, residencies and community events.

Make Hauser & Wirth Somerset reopens on Friday 11 September, 2 – 8 pm for the opening day of ‘Hand and Land’. Social distancing measures are in place.

Hand and Land
12 Sep – 14 Nov 2020

Opening day
11 Sep 2020, 2 – 8 pm

Emerging from this time of reflection, a rare opportunity exists for a collective re-thinking of the value we place upon the objects we choose to surround ourselves with. Contemporary craft offers a deep engagement with a conscious process and exploration of materials – the desire for harmony and a tangible connection with the world around us. ‘Hand and Land’ unites nine makers, many of whom made pieces for the exhibition during lockdown. The works in ceramic, textiles and wood explore how nature and human intervention are inextricably bound to one another through material, shape and form. The act of making serves as both a meditative and therapeutic activity for the maker and in turn, the handmade object embodies the maker’s story and material intelligence. The maker’s respect for their material, coupled with a desire to listen and care for the land reflects universal values and a timely quest for elemental balance.

‘There is a stretch of coast out beyond my studio, to the north. It is wild and relatively untouched. You can get lost out there in the heather, rock and sea. As with the natural world, beauty is often found where there is tension between rugged and soft, pattern and arbitration, perfection and imperfection. When making you cannot control perfection nor contrive imperfection, but somewhere between lies beauty.’ – Adam Buick

Featured Makers: Christabel Balfour, Craig Bamford (SASA works), Adam Buick, Luke Eastop, Nancy Fuller, Alexander de Vol, HoJung Kim, Lola Lely, Nic Webb

Learn more