Suzy Bennett Celebrates Dartmoor Artisans in New Book Launch

Suzy Bennett, a prominent journalist and photographer, has released her latest book, Artisans of Dartmoor, which showcases the vibrant traditional craft scene in Devon, England. After two decades in adventure travel writing, Bennett decided to focus on her local community, capturing the essence of Dartmoor’s artisans. The book is a culmination of her passion for traditional crafts and the stories behind the skilled makers she has encountered.

Bennett’s journey began nearly 20 years ago when she moved to Devon and sought the help of a local blacksmith, Greg Abel, to create a curtain rail for her home. This encounter sparked her fascination with the craft scene in the area. She recounts, “Having lived in London, I’d been completely sealed off from acts of creation, so seeing this Victorian forge with its old ironmongery was absolutely bewitching.” This initial experience led her to explore various traditional crafts, from willow weaving to pottery, ultimately inspiring her to document the artisans in the region.

The Dartmoor Artisan Trail, which Bennett founded in 2017, plays a crucial role in connecting craftspeople with the public. This not-for-profit initiative allows visitors to tour artisans’ workshops, fostering community engagement and appreciation for local craftsmanship. Bennett’s commitment to this cause is evident in her work, as she aims to highlight the cultural movement thriving in her corner of Devon.

Bennett embarked on the project that would become Artisans of Dartmoor in January 2024, after compiling a list of over 40 artisans she wished to feature. She has witnessed a resurgence in traditional crafts, contrary to the narrative of decline prevalent in some media. “I could see this cultural movement happening right on my doorstep and I felt compelled to celebrate and document it,” she explains.

Throughout her creative process, Bennett focused on using natural light to capture the authentic atmosphere of her subjects’ workspaces. “I love gloomy flat light; it creates soft shadows and suits Dartmoor,” she remarks. Her approach often involved navigating the challenges of low-light conditions and cluttered environments, which required her to adapt her photographic techniques to maintain the rustic aesthetic she desired.

The artisans featured in her book express a shared sentiment regarding the mental health benefits of working with their hands. Bennett notes that many of them spoke about how crafting reduces stress and serves as a vital outlet for self-expression. This connection to the creative process resonates deeply with Bennett, who finds peace in photography. “I have an extremely busy internal monologue, which never shuts up unless I’m photographing,” she shares.

As she worked on the book, Bennett encountered various challenges, including managing the expectations of her subjects and creating an authentic atmosphere in their workspaces. She aimed to strike a balance between photogenic appeal and genuine representation. When working with Greg Abel, for instance, she had to navigate his desire to present a tidy workspace while preserving the charm of his Victorian forge.

Bennett’s dedication to her craft and her subjects culminated in a visually stunning celebration of Dartmoor’s artisans. She emphasizes the importance of their work in maintaining a connection to historical human creativity. “The human urge to create is the same now as it was then,” she asserts, linking contemporary artisanship to the ancient roots of craftsmanship in the region.

The release of Artisans of Dartmoor coincides with Bennett’s engagement at the Bovey Tracey Craft Festival, where she shared her insights on the importance of traditional crafts. The book not only highlights the artisans’ skills but also aims to inspire a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship that continues to thrive in Devon.

For those interested in exploring the Dartmoor Artisan Trail or learning more about Suzy Bennett’s work, additional information is available at www.dartmoor-artisan-trail.co.uk and www.suzybennett.com. Her journey reflects a broader movement towards valuing local craftsmanship and the stories that shape our communities.