Made in the Middle has inspiration for anyone interested in making, seeing or buying craft…
While this week’s Government announcement of a bumper £60 million investment aimed to turbocharge growth across the creative industries nationwide was announced, Leicester is already making its mark as a nationally recognised hub for the arts.
Deirdre Figueiredo, Director Craftspace:
“In 2025, the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, the exhibition shows how artists are playing their role in evolving the cultural voice and identity of the Midlands. The curation of the exhibition gives artists an unusual opportunity to experiment, speculate and make work freely without commercial constraints and audiences will be amazed and inspired.”
The city will proudly host the national launch of a major arts exhibition on 25th January (running until March 22nd), featuring the work of six talented local artists, alongside 31 Midlands-based makers. This exhibition is a testament to Leicester’s growing influence in the art world, bringing national attention to the city’s thriving creative scene as it sets the stage for future investments and opportunities.
The artists represent the region’s vibrant and diverse creative community and include both emerging talents and established names. 31 exceptional artists, ranging from 22 to 82 years old, were selected by a panel of curators and craft sector specialists.
A further six artists have been invited by Guest Curator, Jazz Swali, with Curatorial Support from Marta Marsicka to emphasise the enriching cultural impact of global migration to the region. Their work highlights powerful stories about the world we live in.
There will be a wide variety of techniques and disciplines on display including textiles, ceramics, mixed media, jewellery, metalwork and biomaterials. The exhibition is the ninth in the Made in the Middle series and will tour galleries across the Midlands into 2026 raising the profile of regional artists and providing an opportunity to sell.
Tour schedule
Leicester Gallery, De Montfort University 25 January – 22 March 2025
Hub, Sleaford 5 April – 6 July 2025
Nuneaton Museum and Art Gallery 27 September – 22 November 2025
MAC Birmingham 14 February – 11 April 2026
For the public and collectors, it’s a chance to commission a unique artwork or buy existing pieces to suit all budgets. Artists’ work is also available to buy online through Craftspace’s shop at craftspace.co.uk
Made in the Middle is a regional touring exhibition curated by Craftspace in partnership with Leicester Gallery at De Montfort University, funded by Arts Council England. Entry is free of charge to this exhibition. Find out more at: madeinthemiddle.org
