Great British Sewing Bee Judge on Loss of Craft Pride
A Lost Art of Pride: Patrick Grant on teh Decline of Quality and Craftsmanship
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Patrick Grant,the esteemed judge on the popular BBC show The Great British Sewing Bee,has voiced concerns over a growing societal disconnect from the value of skilled craftsmanship and the pride associated with creating quality goods. The 53-year-old Scottish designer shared his observations during a recent appearance on Like This Love This, a podcast hosted by Lucie McInerney.
Grant expressed a sense of sadness regarding the shift in modern production, where speed and cost often overshadow quality and durability.He lamented a culture that prioritizes rapid turnover, stating, “Do it as quickly as you can, doesn’t matter how s*** it is, move on to the next thing.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the devaluing of skilled labor and the tangible results of dedicated effort.
The Changing Landscape of Work and Leisure
Grant further observed a transformation in how people relate to the arts and trades. He noted that activities once considered professions - skills honed over years of apprenticeship and practice – are increasingly relegated to hobbies for the middle class. This shift, he suggests, contributes to a diminished understanding of the time, dedication, and expertise required to produce truly extraordinary work. He pointedly contrasted this with a recent trend of wealthy individuals engaging in activities like beekeeping, characterizing it as “billionaires…cosplaying at being beekeepers.”
The Great British Sewing Bee: A Celebration of Skill
Currently in its latest season, The Great British Sewing Bee, presented by Sara Pascoe, continues to showcase the artistry and dedication of amateur sewers. Twelve contestants are competing for the title of Britain’s best sewer, tackling challenges inspired by themes ranging from art and cinema to historical periods like the 1920s and global cultures like South Korea. Grant, alongside fellow judge Esme Young, evaluates the contestants’ creations, emphasizing precision, technique, and creative vision.
The show airs on BBC One every Tuesday at 9pm and is also available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.