Common Place is an exhibition exploring the creative life of Brighstone. Its curators, Philip Crewe and Tom Howells, grew up in the village. Since then, their fascination with its cultural and natural history – and rich seam of craft-based artistry – has strongly influenced their work as designers and journalists.
By presenting handmade and personal works from the village, it explores how the idiosyncrasies of village life can spur startling creativity. On a surface level, some these objects might seem hobbyist or folksy, even quaint.
But there’s more to them. The colourful pieces on show speak not just to skill or craft, but to imagination, humour, pride and a reflection of the surrounding landscape. They represent something genuine and profoundly lived. Brighstone could be anywhere – but in Common Place, we encourage the viewer to look at their own ‘somewhere’ with fresh eyes, reasserting the cultural value of the handmade in rural life.
Their will be two guided tours led by Philip & Tom on Saturday 26th September. The first one from midday, and the second from 2pm. No need to book, just turn up and be led down handmade artistry.
