The National Festival of Making in Blackburn, Lancashire, is an annual celebration of art, craft, and industry that brings together acclaimed artists and designers with industry leaders. This year, the festival focused on the theme of “Art in Manufacturing,” showcasing collaborations that highlight the intersection of creativity and production.
One of the standout collaborations at the festival was between Matter at hand, the design practice of Lewis Jones, and Darwen Terracotta and Faience. Together, they created a large-scale installation titled “Poured Earth” in the northern transept of Blackburn Cathedral. The piece invites visitors to explore an archway of wooden crates and cast elements, showcasing the timelessness and continuity of earthen building materials.
Another highlight of the festival was Morag Myerscough’s transformation of a corner building into a vibrant, geometric floral mural. The colorful mural, paired with garden boxes and a water tank, added a touch of whimsy to the surroundings. Similarly, Liaqat Rasul collaborated with textile producer Herbert Parkinson to create an optical installation titled “Umeed (Oh-meed) امید – Gobaith – Hope.” This multifaceted textile assemblage features a friendly face made of various elements that come together to form a complete visage when viewed from the front.
The National Festival of Making is not just about showcasing art and design but also about engaging the community in hands-on experiences. The festival features a program of over 100 workshops, performances, artist talks, markets, and more across more than 20 venues in Blackburn. By emphasizing collaboration, cross-disciplinary exploration, and community engagement, the festival aims to inspire people of all ages to unleash their creativity and get involved in the making process.
Overall, the National Festival of Making is a vibrant and dynamic celebration of art, craft, and industry that brings together artists, designers, and manufacturers in a creative melting pot. The festival’s focus on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement makes it a must-visit event for anyone passionate about creativity and making. To learn more about the festival and upcoming events, visit their official website.
