RAW – Tactile Viscera Exhibition – Fay Jones – Lavenham Guildhall

This September, the National Trust welcomes East Anglian artist and specialist in traditional woodland crafts, Fay Jones, as their new artist-in-residence at Lavenham Guildhall. 

Known for her deep connection to natural materials and her skill in transforming them into evocative art, Fay will be presenting her second solo exhibition, titled RAW: Tactile Viscera. This unique and playful exhibition invites visitors to explore the journey of raw materials as they are transformed into refined objects and to experience the powerful emotions and thoughts that can be expressed through 3D mediums and sensory interactions. 

RAW: Tactile Viscera follows two intertwining paths of exploration. On one hand, it delves into the process of crafting—from the harvesting of raw materials to their metamorphosis into intricate works of art. On the other, it investigates how these materials, when shaped by skilled hands, can become powerful vessels for expressing emotions and thoughts that often elude verbal articulation. 

This exhibition will not only highlight the beauty of traditional woodland crafts but it’s hoped it will also engage visitors in a deeper understanding of how materials can be both physically and emotionally transformative. 

In addition to the exhibition, Fay will also be leading a series of workshops where participants can immerse themselves in the tactile world of traditional woodland crafts. These workshops offer a rare opportunity to learn directly from an artist whose practice is deeply rooted in the landscapes of East Anglia, and who is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others. 

Fay Jones’ residency at Lavenham Guildhall runs throughout September starting on Saturday 7 and running until Sunday 29, with her exhibition and workshops available to visitors during this time. This is an event not to be missed for anyone interested in traditional crafts, contemporary art, or the powerful ways in which the two can intertwine. 

To book your spot at a workshop head to:  

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/suffolk/lavenham-guildhall

The Secret Shadow by Fay Jones (image credit Elliot Neale)