To celebrate Ralph’s life and show a snapshot of the world he created at the Handmade House, there will be a commemorative exhibition this May at Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft.
Showing works from across his career, and photographs of the Handmade House and studios, Ralph Levy, Maker will demonstrate Ralph’s extensive and eclectic practice, and the unique and beautiful environment in which he worked and lived.

The 2019 Art in Ditchling Trail is dedicated to the memory of Ralph Levy, creator of The Handmade House, who sadly died earlier this year. Originally from Napier, New Zealand, Ralph set up his home and studio at Beard’s Place Farm in Ditchling in 2001. Aptly named The Handmade House, it soon became a hub for artists and craftspeople, and a favourite and renowned destination in the Artists Open Houses trail, winning Best Open House in 2007.
The Handmade House was a unique venue on the Ditchling Trail, and provided numerous artists and craftspeople with an opportunity to showcase their work both in and around the house. Ralph was a maker in his own right and was equally at home working with metal and ceramics. He also taught ceramics and provided a stimulating and encouraging environment for people to learn this craft.
A self-taught ceramist, Ralph experimented with many materials and techniques including forging steel, casting concrete and ceramics. He worked across the craft, design and art disciplines to create an extensive legacy of truly individual works. Inspired by Charleston Farmhouse, one of Ralph’s long running projects was to collaborate with painters. Ralph made the pots, and the painters, using coloured slips, painted onto the surface of the ceramics.
He will be missed by so many.

Ralph Levy: Maker
4th May – 2nd June
Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft

Adult £6.50 Concessions (ID Required) Students, over 60s, unemployed, registered disabled £5.50 Under 16s (must be accompanied by an adult) Free
Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5pm Sunday 11am – 5pm Bank Holidays 11am – 5pm
Please note, the museum will be closed all day Thursday 16th May