Crafts issue 296: Making connections

In our new issue, we meet the makers using craft to forge meaningful connections. Our cover star, Aamu Song – co-founder of design studio Company – travels the world with her partner Johan Olin to learn about age-old techniques from master artisans, while Cecilia Charlton creates textile artworks that weave together narratives spanning space and time.

Dissident artist Ai Weiwei shares why he treasures his 40 ton collection of buttons for the memories that they trigger, couturier-to-the-stars Sabyasachi Mukherjee collaborates with thousands of craftspeople across India to create his intricate garments, and we take a walk on the wild side with the potters digging deep for their own clay.

Meanwhile, artist Theaster Gates contemplates the metaphysics of making, and furniture designer Sebestian Cox champions rewilding. Our critics and writers delve into the tumultuous history of tartan, the queer activists using craft to change lives, the crafty origins of the word spinster and a new digital home for the Benin Bronzes.

Finally, we spotlight the craftspeople cultivating their own materials in an effort to regain their bond with the earth – from harvesting indigo and raising sheep, to experimenting with mushrooms, plant roots and insects.

You can also find single issues at select online and physical stockists.

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Spring/Summer 2023 launch party

We celebrated the launch of issue 296 of Crafts with a party on Thursday, 11 May at the Crafts Council Gallery in Angel, London. Silver and Gold Crafts members were invited to meet the team behind the magazine, as well as contributors, featured makers and fellow readers. Crafts was accompanied by drinks by Repetition and music by DJ Junior Otamon.