A Life in Craft | The Grainer Collection of Contemporary Ceramics and Craft at Maak
Ceramics Now Weekly is pleased to write about Maak's auctions dedicated to Contemporary Ceramics and Contemporary Craft
Some collections are particularly special. Unique manifestations of the dedication and commitment to a singular purpose that has driven the collectors over decades. The collection of Marc and Diane Grainer - respected patrons and passionate collectors of Contemporary Ceramics and Craft - is one such collection, that specialist auction house Maak is presenting to market this May.
Marc and Diane - from Washington DC - have spent more than four decades collecting and supporting the craft community both in the United States and the UK to bring together a remarkable collection that spans ceramics, metalwork, furniture, woodwork, jewellery, fibre and sculpture, focusing on artists active from the 1980s to the present day. The works reflect their deep appreciation for the technical virtuosity, aesthetic innovation, and craftsmanship for which British studio ceramics and craft are renowned.
“Our collection has always been about finding work that speaks to us both aesthetically and technically. We’ve always been captivated by the incredible craftsmanship in British ceramics and craft, which is what drew us to start collecting in the early 1980s. The quality of British craft is unparalleled, offering beauty, creativity, and exceptional skill, and over the years we have been fortunate to acquire some of the best pieces from this rich tradition.” - Marc Grainer
Since their first acquisition, their involvement has gone far beyond collecting. As active patrons and board members, they’ve worked with organisations such as the American Craft Council, The Furniture Society, the Mint Museum Founders’ Circle, and the James Renwick Alliance. In keeping with their longstanding commitment to giving back to the community that has given them so much, the Grainers have chosen to donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale to the British Crafts Council with the hope of helping to support its work into the future.
“Marc and Diane have had an unwavering passion for British craft for many decades, and have built up an extraordinary & enviable collection. Their commitment to supporting the Crafts Council through the auction of their collection comes at a most welcome time, and will help us continue our work of supporting the makers of today and tomorrow. It is a generous act of philanthropy that we are deeply grateful for.” - Natalie Melton, Executive Director Crafts Council
The other highlights of ceramics and craft being offered in the two auctions also come from private UK and international collections. In the Contemporary Ceramics auction these include works by Bernard Leach, William Staite Murray, Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, James Tower, Elizabeth Fritsch, Jennifer Lee and Magdalene Odundo. The dedicated Contemporary Craft auction offers wide ranging works including three wall hangings by Peter Collingwood and a group of Liam Flynn ebonised vessels.
The two Maak auctions, Contemporary Ceramics and Contemporary Craft, will take place during London Craft Week, from 10-15 May 2025. For more information about the auction and to view the collection, please visit Maak’s website or contact the auction house directly.
About Maak
Maak is the leading auction house specialising in contemporary ceramics and craft. Known for its expertly curated sales and dedication to showcasing the best in international ceramics and craft, Maak provides a platform for collectors to acquire rare and exceptional works from both established and emerging artists through both their regular auction schedule and private sales.
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