Suzy Bennett Celebrates Devon’s Artisan Crafts in New Book

Award-winning journalist and photographer Suzy Bennett has launched a new book titled Artisans of Dartmoor, showcasing the rich tradition of craftsmanship in Devon, UK. Bennett, known for her work with esteemed publications such as The Telegraph and Conde Nast Traveller, has shifted her focus from adventure travel to spotlighting local artisans, capturing their stories and techniques.

Her journey into the world of crafts began nearly 20 years ago with a visit to blacksmith Greg Abel while seeking a curtain rail for her home. “Having moved from London, I was completely sealed off from acts of creation,” Bennett recalls. The encounter sparked her fascination with the craft scene, leading her to explore various artisans through connections made with Abel.

A Cultural Movement in Devon

Bennett’s exploration revealed a vibrant community of craftsmen and women dedicated to traditional techniques. “From that moment on, I was captivated by the craft scene,” she states. This growing interest culminated in a personal project that evolved into her latest book, which documents over 40 artisans in the Dartmoor region.

Despite reports of declining traditional crafts across the UK, Bennett observed a different reality in Devon. “I could see this cultural movement happening right on my doorstep and felt compelled to celebrate and document it,” she explains. After being invited to speak at the Bovey Tracey Craft Festival in June 2023, she committed to completing the book within 18 months, pausing her social life to focus on this endeavor.

Bennett believes that Dartmoor’s natural resources have supported craftspeople for centuries. “There’s a woodturner here who lives just 15 miles from a Bronze Age cist where the earliest example of woodturning in the UK was ever found,” she notes. This historical connection underscores the enduring human urge to create, which Bennett argues is one of humanity’s defining traits.

The Art of Photography in Craftsmanship

Bennett’s work as a photographer brings its own challenges, particularly when capturing artisans in their environments. “Photographing in low light and confined spaces can be physically demanding,” she admits. She opts for natural light in her images, stating, “I love gloomy flat light; it creates soft shadows and suits Dartmoor’s aesthetic.”

Throughout the project, Bennett faced the dual challenge of authenticity and photogenic appeal. She often had to negotiate with artisans about how they presented their working environments, balancing the need for visual storytelling with the authentic representation of their craft. “It was a constant conversation between things looking photogenic and things looking authentic,” she explains.

Bennett’s approach to portraiture involves making her subjects feel comfortable. She encourages them to embrace their craft and the pride they have in their work. “When I did a recce at Greg’s, he had all this beautiful Victorian ironmongery strung along the rafters,” she recalls, highlighting the delicate balance of maintaining the integrity of the space while ensuring a visually compelling image.

The culmination of her efforts is visible in Artisans of Dartmoor, which is now available for purchase. For more information about the Dartmoor Artisan Trail or to view Bennett’s photography, visit www.dartmoor-artisan-trail.co.uk and www.suzybennett.com.

Bennett’s work not only celebrates the artisans of Devon but also emphasizes the importance of traditional crafts in today’s society, reminding us of the timeless human instinct to create.