Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Ralph Levy Maker<br />
The <strong>2019</strong> Art in Ditchling Trail is dedicated to the memory of Ralph Levy, creator of The Handmade House, who sadly<br />
died earlier this year. Originally from Napier, New Zealand, Ralph set up his home and studio at Beard’s Place Farm<br />
in Ditchling in 2001. Aptly named The Handmade House, it soon became a hub for artists and craftspeople, and a<br />
favourite and renowned destination in the Artists Open Houses trail, winning Best Open House in 2007.<br />
The Handmade House was a unique venue on the Ditchling Trail, and provided numerous artists and craftspeople<br />
with an opportunity to showcase their work both in and around the house. Ralph was a maker in his own right and<br />
was equally at home working with metal and ceramics. He also taught ceramics and provided a stimulating and<br />
encouraging environment for people to learn this craft.<br />
A self-taught ceramist, Ralph experimented with many materials and techniques including forging steel, casting<br />
concrete and ceramics. He worked across the craft, design and art disciplines to create an extensive legacy of truly<br />
individual works. Inspired by Charleston Farmhouse, one of Ralph’s long running projects was to collaborate with<br />
painters. Ralph made the pots, and the painters, using coloured slips, painted onto the surface of the ceramics.<br />
He will be missed by so many.<br />
86