A COMPELLING visual glimpse into Hart Silversmiths’ workshop at Chipping Campden, is explored in a new photographic exhibition at Court Barn Museum starting this weekend.
From this Saturday, 27 September to Sunday, 9 November, the museum will showcase the work of Leamington photographer Richard Plummer ARPS, taken in the evocative setting, making it perfect for documentary-style storytelling through photography.
Nestled on the first floor of the Old Silk Mill in Sheep Street, Hart Silversmiths, established by CR Ashbee in 1902, still preserves the spirit and techniques of the Arts and Crafts movement of which Ashbee was a leading light.
David Hart. Photo Richard Plummer ARPS
As the sole surviving workshop of the original Guild of Handicraft, this time capsule still thrives with handcrafted silverwork by a team of four, including three direct descendants of George Henry Hart, who took over its running in 1912.
These are his grandson David Hart, along with Derek Elliott, William Hart and Julian Hart.
Their creations range from delicate thimbles to ecclesiastical crosses and civic commissions, all produced in an atmosphere mostly unchanged since the early 20th Century.
Richard said: “The proximity of Hart’s workshop in Chipping Campden, its important history, glorious products and the great affability of all the professionals working there combined to fulfil my search for a worthy topic with which I could apply to the Royal Photographic Society for an associateship.
“I am indebted to David Hart and all his colleagues for their patience with me during my many repeated visits; and their graciousness as I attempted to capture at least some of the essence of their skills, the variety of their output, and their extraordinary premises.”
Silversmith Derek Elliot. Photo Richard Plummer ARPS
The legacy of craftsmanship continues through the Hart Silversmiths Trust, which maintains an archive of over 3,500 design drawings, many of which were created by George Hart.
This archive preserves the legacy of the Guild of Handicraft and ensures that the tradition of hand-made silversmithing remains alive for future generations.
The importance of preserving this tradition can be seen in this exhibition, where photography has been used as a way to capture the ongoing craftsmanship of the workshop.
These images not only showcase the technical skill involved but also evoke a sense of continuity with the past.
A continuity rooted in historical commitment to quality craftsmanship.
