This exhibition explores the lives and work of Ethel, Fred and Maud Partridge who were born and educated in North Devon during the late nineteenth century and went on to become influential members of the Arts and Craft Movement and a significant part of the artistic community in Ditchling.
Ethel was a highly skilled craftswoman who led the resurgence of dyeing and hand-loom weaving in the UK , while Fred’s unique jewellery designs were sold in London’s famous Liberty and Co department store.
The exhibition brings together items from the Museum’s own Partridge Collection being joined with loans from national and regional museums. With examples of Ethel’s celebrated handmade textiles coming from the Craft Study Centre and Ditchling Museum; and the exquisite jewellery created by Fred from the V&A, Fitzwilliam and Birmingham Museums Trust. With copies Ethel's books and the first edition copy of a book on Mediaeval Sinhalese art from the British Library.
The exhibition is accompanied by a spring and summer events programme which includes an exclusive three-day workshop, adults talks programme and childrens workshops.
