QEST Celebrates 35 Years of Investing in the Future of Craft
The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) celebrates 35 years of championing excellence in craft. QEST transforms the careers of talented and aspiring makers by funding their training and education, creating pathways to excellence and strengthening the future of the UK’s craft sector.
QEST’s impact is significant, having awarded £7.4 million to almost 900 makers working across the UK in more than 130 different craft disciplines since being founded in 1990. From papermaking to biotextiles, ceramic conservation to sculpture, QEST supports both contemporary and traditional craft skills, as well as innovative techniques and practices. Advancing an individual’s career and passing on skills is central to QEST’s mission, with 72% of Alumni either teaching or training other makers themselves.
A thriving craft industry is vital to the UK’s cultural and economic landscape as well as the future world of work. QEST is committed to empowering the next generation to see craft as a viable, fulfilling and sustainable career. Since launching its Partnership Programmes in 2023, QEST has reached over 19,000 young people and children, and supported underrepresented communities to explore craft and conservation careers.
As a charity, QEST’s work is made possible through the generous donations of its funders. Support from individuals and organisations ensure QEST can continue to provide transformative opportunities for talented and aspiring makers across the UK, for the next 35 years and beyond.
QEST was founded by the Royal Warrant Holders Association in 1990 to celebrate the 90th birthday of HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. HM The King is the Charity’s Patron.
To mark their 35th anniversary, QEST are hosting an online auction showcasing 35 exceptional items generously donated by QEST Alumni and friends. From sculpture and jewellery to print and decorative art, this collection celebrates the skill, passion and creativity of craftspeople from across the UK. With exclusive one-offs and pieces reflecting skills gained through QEST training, this is a special opportunity to own a piece of UK craft and support the makers shaping its future. Every bid helps QEST champion craft excellence, protect vital skills, and strengthen the future of UK craft.
Links
Auction and Donation Site: https://uk.givergy.com/QEST35/
https://www.instagram.com/qestcraft
https://www.linkedin.com/company/queen-elizabeth-scholarship-trust