YOU can’t get away from the festive onslaught of Christmas gift suggestions – from starry television adverts to glossy magazine supplements, there are more ideas for presents than you can shake the proverbial stick at. But nothing beats an original object, something produced with skill and passion by a true craftsperson.

Many galleries in the region have special Christmas exhibitions, but there are few better places than MAKE Southwest at Bovey Tracey to find inspiration and the right present for a special person.

The gallery was founded as Devon Guild of Craftsmen in 1955 by a small group of makers, led by Edward Baly, who were enthusiastic about the idea of promoting the best in regional craftwork. From 1956, and for the next 30 years, there were annual exhibitions at venues throughout South Devon.

In 1986 the organisation bought Riverside Mill, in Bovey Tracey, which houses a retail gallery and three exhibition galleries, which stage more than 20 exhibitions throughout the year. In November 2021 the organisation, which is a registered charity with educational aims, changed its name to MAKE Southwest to more accurately represent their offering. Apart from a handful of items, the retail gallery sells only members’ work, while the exhibitions aim to show a broad range of the best craft from around the country.

The Christmas exhibition, Under the Tree, is now open until 2nd January, with a wide variety of desirable artisan products, including hand carved chopping boards made from West Country sourced ash and beech, colourful porcelain fruit bowls and ash-glazed grogged terra cotta tableware.

Each piece is a testament to craftsmanship, blending functionality with aesthetic charm. Explore the perfect gifts for the food enthusiasts in your life or add a touch of artisanal flair to your festive table.

Featured makers include potters Kat Wheeler, Julie Barham, Rosemary Jacks, Rosie Eagle and the late John Leach, wood craftsmen Bear Joinery, Ambrose Vevers, textiles by Esme Cooper and Sarah McIntyre.

Pictured: Items from the Christmas exhibition; photograph by Emma Booth. Desert Bird jug by Jill Fanshawe Kato and butter spreaders by Ambrose Vevers.