Role: Traditional Craft Workshop Leader
Fee: £450.00
Materials: To be provided by the workshop leader. An additional £80 is available for workshop materials.
Timeline: One Saturday between 10th September 2025 and end of February 2026, to be agreed for workshop delivery.
Deadline: 31st August 2025

Description:

Groam House Museum is looking for skilled craft practitioners to lead workshops as part of our “Community Connections through Collections” project. Traditional and endangered crafts are particularly welcome. 

Workshops will celebrate crafts inspired by lesser-known and often overlooked objects from our collection. These are not our famous Pictish stones, but rather the small, hidden objects that have rarely been researched or exhibited before. This project aims to show that every object has a valid story—not just the “star” pieces. Even the most inconspicuous item can be an inspiring spark for creativity.

These objects are not to be replicated, but instead used as a creative springboard for unique, engaging, and unexpected craft approaches. For example, a leather item may inspire a weaving session, or a manuscript may inspire a woodblock design. We want participants and facilitators alike to experience how ‘old objects’ can be reimagined in versatile and imaginative ways.

Craft leaders will be presented with a curated selection of potential object inspirations, including items such as annular brooches, mort bells, posey rings, flax tools, handmade maps, or illuminated manuscripts.

Each session will begin with a short introduction to the museum and the chosen object, provided by a member of the Groam House team.

Note: The museum has a small workshop space with one sturdy table accommodating 5–6 participants seated. If the craft requires no tables, we may be able to host slightly more. Please consider this setup when planning.

Deliverables:

  • Design and deliver a 4-hour hands-on workshop (with breaks), tailored to Groam House Museum and suitable for diverse audiences.
  • Incorporate collection objects or themes into the session, as agreed with Museum staff.
  • Provide a materials list and ensure participants receive a meaningful experience.
  • Where possible, creations that could be used in future pop-up exhibitions are welcomed, though not required.

Requirements:

  • Expertise in a relevant craft.
  • Experience delivering workshops to community groups.
  • Passion for heritage and creativity.

Next Steps for Applicants

Interested freelancers are invited to submit a brief proposal outlining:

  • Relevant experience.
  • Example projects or portfolio (if applicable).
  • Availability during the project timeline.
  • Material expectations.

Contact Information:
Please email aila.schafer@groamhouse.org with the subject line: Workshop Leader Application – [Your Name]
Deadline: 31st August 2025