Hew Lorimer : a special kind of artist

Abstract

This thesis seeks firstly to provide an overview of the life and work of the Scottish sculptor and craftsman, Hew Lorimer, and secondly to discuss some issues concerning contemporary craft, and the significance this has for museums and galleries.

Part one includes a chronological survey of the life and achievements of the sculptor, a comprehensive catalogue of his work and an inventory of his studio at the time of his death. It is intended to provide a body of detailed information which can be used as a work of reference in the future.

Leading on from certain issues raised in the first section, there follows a general discussion regarding the distinctions that are commonly made between art and craft, centred around the themes of individuality, skill, function and economics. It is hoped to raise questions concerning the way certain objects are labelled and evaluated, and relates to the discussion of museum and gallery display.

The final part of the thesis involves a comparative study of several museums and galleries with the aim of examining methods of display, interpretation and collecting, with particular reference to contemporary crafts.