Craft Circle (From Western Telegraph)

Craft Circle

Pembrokeshire Craftsmen's Circle

Such is the beauty of Pembrokeshire's coastline and countryside, it's little wonder that it has long enticed and inspired some of the finest artists and craftspeople in the country. From the heart of the Preseli Hills to our coastal villages and towns, there is a network of talented artists working from their homes, studios, galleries and workshops. Some have come together under the umbrella of the Pembrokeshire Craftsmen's Circle. This year, the organisation celebrates its 34th anniversary and it currently has 13 members. Although this represents only a small fraction of the county's craftsmakers, they cover a wealth of skills, most of which lie deep in history and tradition. But like all good craftsmen and women, many have taken on board modern technology, using it to enhance their work and production. This year's chairman of the Craftsmen's Circle is Roy Thedvall, of Crymych. Self-taught, he has been a practising blacksmith artist for 20 years. He blends traditional blacksmith skills with creative and innovative designs and produces a range of work. Go through the list of members and you will find they create items ranging from the beautiful to the practical, traditional to the innovative, delicate to the solid. They include makers of silver and gold jewellery, enamels, ceramics, puzzles, pottery, pewterwork, and there are handweavers, woodturners and etchers and printers. One of the major shop windows for members has been the Crafts at the Cathedral exhibition. The beautiful setting has been the Cathedral Hall, adjoining the magnificent St Davids Cathedral. But this year, work is being carried out on the hall and the Cathedral cloisters. Because of uncertainty over the completion date, the Circle's Easter exhibition will be staged at St Davids Primary School. The event begins on Easter Saturday, March 26th, and runs for two weeks. If this is successful, further exhibitions could be held there during the rest of the year, said Mr Thedvall.