About Design Factory

Design Factory promotes artistic integrity, raises the standard of craft and design and commercially supports and develops the very best designer/makers in craft practice today.

Our renowned membership is synonymous with high quality, creativity, innovation and fresh design talent. To reflect this we have an independent selection process (that includes representation from industry specialists) to assess excellence and quality of product and advise on appropriate professional development routes.

Design Factory is currently funded through North Kesteven District Council and Arts Council England East Midlands. We are also extremely grateful to our previous funders, East Midlands Development Agency and ERDF Objective 2.

Design Factory also thanks its independent selection panel who offer their time and support to ensure we strive to raise the standard of contemporary craft produced in the region:

Tina Whitlow - Crafts Council, Market Development Officer
Kate Stoddart - Freelancer Curator
Andrew Tanner - Andrew Tanner Design, Designer
Christine Johnson - UK Trade & Investment, International Trade Advisor Creative Industries
Susan Sherritt - The Harley Gallery, Gallery Manager
Lesley Beale - Lakeside Arts Centre, Craft Co-Ordinator
Rachael Chambers - Ferrers Gallery/fg2, Director and Craft&Design magazine, Contemporary Craft Editor
Selected Design Factory designer/maker members also attend the panel on a rotational basis.