About the Norfolk Craft Guild
Established in 1952 by member charter, the Norfolk Craft Guild was established to promote, support, and preserve the practices and techniques of skilled craftsmanship in Norfolk and the surrounding East Anglia region.
Having emerged at a time when post-war Britain – in an era of modern industrialisation – was also yearning to experience a renewed appreciation for traditional and handmade work and traditional skills — these principles and values continue to define the Guild to this day.
The Norfolk Craft Guild was formed by a group of local master artisans who recognised the need for an organisation that would nurture high-quality local craftsmanship, encourage collaboration, and provide opportunities for these multi-talented creatives to exhibit and develop their work. Inspired by the traditions of medieval craft guilds — which served as both protectors of trade standards and communities for skilled makers — the Norfolk Craft Guild built on this heritage while embracing the needs of contemporary craft in the modern world.
From its earliest days, the Guild attracted talented craftspeople from across the county —ceramicists, woodturners, weavers, jewellers, bookbinders, leatherworkers, and more — many of whom were at the forefront of the British craft revival of the mid-20th century. Their passion and dedication laid the foundation for what would become one of Norfolk’s most respected creative communities. Whilst not much more detail is currently known about the history and origins of the Norfolk Craft Guild, this is being actively researched to help preserve the legacy of the Guild.
Our Heritage and the Craft Guild Tradition
The idea of a “craft guild” has deep historical roots. In medieval times, guilds were associations of artisans and merchants who oversaw the practice of their trade in a particular area. They ensured high standards, provided training through apprenticeships, and offered mutual support and protection.
The Norfolk Craft Guild carries forward many of these principles — particularly the commitment to excellence, the sharing of knowledge, and a strong sense of community among makers.
While rooted in tradition, the Guild has evolved with the times. It has welcomed new materials, technologies, and forms of expression while staying true to its original mission: to uphold and promote the highest standards of craftsmanship in Norfolk.
The Norfolk Craft Guild has exhibited at many prestigious venues including for many years at the National Trust Blickling Hall Estate, The Forum Norwich, Becket’s Chapel (Gallery) in Wymondham, and in recent years too at the Handa Gallery in The Maltings, Wells-next-the-Sea.
Membership and Assessments
Membership in the Guild is by assessment, reflecting our commitment to quality and integrity in all forms of craft.
New applicants present their work either at the regularly held Guild Committee meetings or at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), where it is reviewed by a panel of the Guild’s Executive Team, for quality, creativity and technique. Feedback is constructive, and the process ensures that every member shares the Guild’s values of skill, creativity, and dedication to their craft.
The Guild also operates under a clear and democratic constitution, which outlines its purpose, governance, and code of ethics. This includes the formal Annual General Meeting (AGM), where members gather to reflect on the past year, elect Executive team, officers and committee members, and plan future exhibitions, workshops, collaborative projects and occasionally social events too.
