Lauren Baker is Innovation and Research Associate for Creative Fuse at Newcastle University Business School, having recently completed her doctoral studies at the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD), University of Dundee.
Lauren’s research interests include unconventional entrepreneurship, craft innovation, and identity. As a part of the Scottish Graduate School of Arts & Humanities (SGSAH) Creative Economy Knowledge Hub, Lauren’s doctoral research explored the role of organisational programmes in the development of the entrepreneurial profiles of craft makers in Scotland. This has seen Lauren working with several organisational partners, including Craft Scotland and the American Craft Council, to create knowledge that contributes to both theory and practice. Collaboration and partnership is vital to Lauren, who places high value on the relationships and stories that emerge when working this way.
Originally trained as a textile designer, Lauren has significant experience in the craft sector as a maker which she has been able to share with others through the development of workshops, exhibitions, and creative events. Lauren’s professional background includes curatorial practice in both public and private galleries and museums, as well as freelance workshop facilitation in textiles, ceramics, and paper craft. These activities are carefully balanced (and sometimes combined) with visiting beaches, walking woodlands, and tending to a yard full of strawberry plants.