Withy Lore

Exploring the critically endangered craft of withy pot making, celebrating makers past and present and preserving its heritage for the future.

For centuries withy pots – traditional crab or lobster pots, largely made from willow – were a common sight around the South West coast. Today, only a handful of withy pot makers remain, forming a vital connection to the past. Their skills, stories, knowledge and the pots themselves form the heart of the Withy Lore exhibition.

Delivered in partnership with Storylines, who specialise in creatively gathering and sharing stories, and conceptual multi-media artist Anna Pope, the exhibition uses a variety of artforms to celebrate and share this unique craft and its heritage.

Withy pots were traditionally handmade by fisherfolk during the winter months, when adverse weather kept them onshore and the cut willow was at its best. It was also during this time that the craft was passed onto the next generation.

Cast into the sea in spring with the hope of luring a precious catch, withy pots typically only lasted one season, naturally biodegrading to leave no trace. Sadly this cycle, so in tune with nature’s seasonal rhythms, became broken with the introduction of modern plastic and metal pots during the late 20th century.

Artist Anna Pope has always had a fascination with the connections between people and nature. Her partner’s father was a Cornish fisherman who sadly passed away before meeting their two children, meaning his stories could not be passed on.

For full information go to the Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery website