To coincide with the Jerwood Contemporary Makers exhibition, this discussion explores and defines amateur practice, its contexts, benefits and boundaries.

Amateur makers occupy a marginal yet essential position in the arts, yet the word ‘amateur’ often conjures up negative connotations. In this discussion, writers, educators, amateurs and professional makers seek to define amateur practice, its contexts, benefits and boundaries.
Speakers:
• Stephen Knott (Chair), PhD student, School of Applied Art, RCA
• Katy Bevan, writer, amateur knitter and Participation & Learning Manager at the Crafts Council
• Duncan Hooson, ceramicist and teacher, Morley College
• Emma Shercliff, stitcher, writer, lecturer and PhD candidate School of Fashion & Textiles, RCA

(Image: Jerwood Contemporary Makers 2010: ‘Ooh Lala’ by David Clarke, 2007)