The Bluecoat Display Centre (Bdc) is Liverpool’s independent contemporary craft gallery. Established in 1959, we are based in the welcoming and inspiring setting of the Bluecoat, on College Lane in the heart of Liverpool city centre.
Over the past 60 years we have curated an annual programme of diverse solo, thematic, material and discipline-based exhibitions against the backdrop of our beautiful Grade I listed gallery space. Our exhibition programme and monthly solo spotlight In the Window displays showcase the highest quality work by emerging and established makers based across the UK, as well as internationally. Our exhibition programme is supported by artist-led workshops and talks to share the skills and stories of the makers behind the work, and advocate for the future of craft.
The range and ambition of work is underpinned by exceptional making and the Bdc has long been recognised nationally by makers, collectors and the wider craft community for the range and standard of work shown. Our selection criteria calls for a distinctive artistic voice, exceptional skill and an innovative approach to practice. We feature makers’ work across all craft disciplines, highlighting the work of the finest professional crafts people in our region, as well as from across the UK, and provide a permanent retail platform and online shop for leading contemporary makers to present and sell their work.
This rich legacy gives the Bdc strong connections with many of the leading contemporary makers from the late 1950s to the present day.
The Bdc became a registered charity in 2010 with the aim of engaging with diverse members of the local community who may feel excluded or alienated, and those who would benefit from the therapeutic qualities that art and craft sessions can give. Since 2010 the outreach programme has delivered a series of high-quality craft workshops and residencies facilitated by the North West's leading craft practitioners.
Our team of knowledgeable staff are led by Director Samantha Rhodes, with Assistant Directors Frances Gill-Smith and Kate Moult, and Gallery Assistant Claire Smith. Please contact us with your enquiries or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with upcoming events and exhibitions.
COVID-19
Please keep in mind when ordering online that there may continue to be some disruption, but we are aiming to get available stock delivered within 7 days.
In the meantime if there is anything you are interested in that does not currently feature online please do get in touch by email at crafts@bluecoatdisplaycentre.com and we can help source pieces by request.
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