Welcome to Find a Maker

MAKER OF THE DAY

Ruth Broadway

I am a multimedia artist with a background in printmaking and illustration. Since completing a Master’s degree in 2019 I have primarily been making work that involves hand stitching textiles, printing feathers, and following breadcrumbs . . . . .

My work is a walk through the [deep dark] woods even when you find yourself in the city. I am inspired by traditional folk stories and folk-craft and embrace the prosaic nature of these techniques to create work that becomes love-letters to the passing of time, transformation, and the fragility of life. Using my hands to tend to each item I make, I implement humble, slow, and low-tech processes because I tell stories about small and humble things.

I make one-off pieces that aim to hold memory or meaning and sometimes secrets; whether that be a coat with stories hand-stitched into the lining, or ‘Pocket Talismans’ :cotton handkerchiefs hand-stitched with words of encouragement to spur the bearer on, or the humble Jam Jar Museum of Nearly Lost and Not Quite Found, where I endeavour to retain and catch a transient moment, thing or memory and hold it forever for anyone who wants to contribute to this museum; preserving their item or memory in some form; solidifying something that barely exists; documenting it before it’s lost forever.

I am available for commissions: Have you got a special garment that you would like me to stitch your story onto? A christening or wedding dress? Granny’s cotton gloves? Dad’s holey jumper? Or perhaps you have got clothing that you would like me to make into a memory quilt. Or maybe you would you like me to stitch a personalised Pocket Talisman for you or a loved one?

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The Capital of Craft Podcast with Cathryn Gwynn

Craft Festival Wales Special

I met Cathryn Gwynn at her home studio in Cilgerran, a village near Cardigan in West Wales. 

Her early life in Cardiff led her to a career in writing, editing and finally teaching at Preseli School. She later began an access course in art, leading to a degree in Textiles from Carmarthen School of Art in 2020.

Text, texture and textile: three words which reflect sher practice as a mixed-media artist. She is drawn to thread, pen, ink and paper and work somewhere on the cusp of these materials.

Cathryn Wynn will be giving an illustrated talk about her work at The Capital of Craft at Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle. 

Her work is part of an exhibition of 8 important Welsh makers at Canfas Gallery in Cardigan. Woven, curated by Suzi Park from Cambrian Wool, runs from September 5-October 5th. 

Craft Festival Wales September 5-7, 2025

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Award Winning Festivals

Since 2003 we have run multi-award winning Festivals in Bovey Tracey, Devon, Cardigan and Cheltenham. In June, we host the UK's best loved and finest contemporary Craft Festival in Bovey Tracey featuring over 200 curated makers. Hosted in idyllic parkland on the edge of Dartmoor. Complimented by an dazzling number of workshops, demonstrations, masterclasses, talks, family activities, street theatre, live music and feasting! In March we head to the beautiful Regency town of Cheltenham, presenting 100 makers at Craft Festival at the Town Hall. In September we will be hosting our first Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle.

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