Reflecting on Derbyshire Makes 2025

Derbyshire Makes 2025 saw a vibrant tapestry of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit. This year’s festival showcased the incredible talent of local artists and makers, celebrating the rich heritage of craftsmanship that defines Derbyshire.

From its inception, Derbyshire Makes aimed to bridge the gap between traditional skills and contemporary creativity, and it did not disappoint. Across six diverse hub Festivals – Chesterfield, Heanor, Cromford, Glossop, Bolsover and Swadlincote – attendees engaged with a plethora of activities ranging from hands-on workshops to inspiring exhibitions. The festival’s ethos of inclusivity resonated deeply, as people of all ages and backgrounds came together to explore the world of making.

With over 13,000 people in attendance, over 200 creative practitioners and artists, we celebrated a diverse array of crafts, from traditional buckle-making in Bolsover to VR and filmmaking in Glossop, storytelling in Cromford and a heritage craft conference in Chesterfield, make do and mend in Heanor through to a fantastic finale in Swadlincote. The hub festivals were free to attend, engaging visitors and makers alike through hands-on workshops and vibrant exhibitions.

Our key projects included The Makory, showcasing local artisans and local heritage, and Women Who Make, highlighting female craftswomen, inspired attendees and nurtured collaboration. The Dare to Dream initiative empowered creators young and old, inviting everyone to explore their hopes, dreams and artistic potential through banner and flag making activities. Make Room invited participants into nature itself where people could reconnect with the landscape and with each other through creative practice. These projects reinforced Derbyshire Makes commitment to engage participants of all ages and to reach communities across the county.

One of the standout features of this year’s programme was the emphasis on creative engagement. Local residents were not just passive spectators; they became active participants in the creative process. Activities allowed attendees to try their hands at various making, from pottery to textile arts, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their local heritage. The success of these interactive sessions highlighted the importance of creating spaces where people can experiment and learn, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to education and skill-sharing.

As we reflect on the achievements of Derbyshire Makes 2025, it’s important to recognise the hard work and dedication of everyone involved; from the organisers and volunteers to the artists and participants. Their collective efforts created an atmosphere of excitement and inspiration that permeated the programme. The community's enthusiasm for the arts was palpable, underscoring the need for continued support and investment in cultural endeavours.

Looking ahead to 2026, the foundation laid by this year’s programme presents exciting opportunities for growth and innovation. The feedback gathered from attendees and participants has played a crucial role in shaping next year’s programme. Plans are already underway to expand workshop offerings, enhance partnerships with local schools and heritage organisations, as well as introduce new collaborative projects that celebrate Derbyshire’s rich cultural heritage. And with investment from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, we have launch Derbyshire Makes History which will help expand The Makory tour, launch a new film programme and provide much-needed sector support opportunities in Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Makes 2025 has not only celebrated the art of making but also strengthened community bonds and inspired a new generation of creators. The festival has successfully highlighted the importance of creativity in our lives, serving as a reminder that art is not just a form of expression, but a powerful tool for connection and change.

As we look forward to the future, we invite everyone to join us in 2026 in continuing this journey of exploration, creativity, and community making.

Derbyshire Makes 2026 will bring a countywide programme of workshops, exhibitions, walks, conversations and creative events, including six Festival Hub Days taking place throughout April and May.