Clare Edwards, Director of the Hub National Centre for Craft & Design and Design-Nation
Clare at The Hub, Welcome to My World, 2023, Photo: Lydia Fabian
It is exciting to discover organisations like Design-Nation that champion UK craft and design, supporting and making opportunities for British makers. So I am very pleased that Clare has answered my questions and now has a place on my website. Read on to find out about Clare - you can find out more about The Hub and Design-Nation on their websites. Here’s the link to the inspirational Design-Nation ceramics portfolio in case you’re interested…
Who are you?
I’m Clare Edwards, Director of the Hub National Centre for Craft & Design and Design-Nation.
The Hub is a vibrant arts centre, home to the UK’s largest gallery dedicated to contemporary craft and design. We present exhibitions, workshops, events, performances, award-winning festivals, education initiatives, and co-produced projects, celebrating artists from the UK and around the world.
Design-Nation is a national network and curated portfolio supporting Britain’s leading designer-makers. We provide professional development, exhibitions, events, and digital showcases, nurturing creative practice so it can develop, grow, and reach audiences far and wide.
My whole career has been dedicated to supporting and championing craft and design. I’m passionate about helping artists and makers thrive, creating spaces for creativity to flourish, and sharing the stories behind the materials, objects, and people that make this sector so inspiring.
Design-Nation Beneath the Surface exhibition at The Hub. Photo by Jules Lister.
Why do you also have a thing with ceramics?
I’m not a maker myself, but ceramics completely captures my imagination. I’m fascinated by the patience, dedication, and skill that goes into it. Watching ceramicists work is mesmerising, and I’m really proud that both the Hub and Design-Nation play a vital role in supporting artists to experiment, grow, and push their practice forward.
Adele Howitt installation, Beneath the Surface at the Hub. Photo by Jules Lister.
When did ceramics come into your life?
Ceramics first entered my life early in my career. I remember visiting Pete Moss during Art on the Map, Lincolnshire’s open studios event, and being completely mesmerised watching him at work. From that moment, I knew I wanted to do everything I could to support artists and makers. Since then, I’ve been involved with countless exhibitions and projects, including a solo exhibition of Pete’s work in 2010. Ceramics never fails to amaze me!
Jemma Gowland installation, Beneath the Surface at The Hub. Photo by Jules Lister.
Where can we find you on a typical day?
My week is split between the Hub and Design-Nation. At the Hub, I take a very hands-on approach as Director, meeting audiences and participants, balancing strategic planning and development with stints in the café and shop.
With Design-Nation, our team works across the UK and New Zealand, so some days start at 6am and finish at 9pm! It’s busy, but seeing creative projects come to life and supporting artists and makers achieve their ambitions, makes every busy working day worthwhile.
Julie Massie installation, Beneath the Surface at The Hub. Photo by Jules Lister.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, I’m focused on creating more opportunities for makers across the UK, developing exhibitions and events that celebrate craft, materials, and innovation, and supporting artists to take risks, grow their practice, and reach new audiences. This year, Design-Nation is celebrating 25 years of championing and supporting craft and design, and we have lots of exciting celebrations planned! At the Hub we are busy planning for a major exhibition celebrating the work and legacy of Christopher Dresser.
