Mayor Elisha McCallion urges people to get involved in next month’s Craft Fair
PLANS are well underway for Derry’s annual celebration of all things crafty, with the Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Craft Fair taking over the Guildhall on Friday 13th, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th November 2015.
The stunning surrounds of the newly renovated historic building set the scene for some of the most eye-catching and creative works by local craft artists, in what has become the most popular craft showcase in the North West.
And craft artists from across Ireland are now being invited to apply for places at the event, which is expected to attract upwards of 4,000 visitors.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, encouraged local craft artists to get involved.
“I’m delighted to see the growing number of local crafts people who are taking the opportunity to realise the commercial value of their work by engaging with the Council’s Craft programme and events.
“The Craft Fair is one of the highlights of the year and a great opportunity for the public to support the work of local artists and creatives.
“I would really encourage anyone with an interest in craft to get involved and be part of the expanding network of crafters working to promote the industry in the North West.”
With the rising demand for uniquely crafted products and the recent resurgence of the craft industry, the variety of handmade gifts and bespoke designs bring shoppers from far and wide to the fair each year.
Now in its 21st year, the Guildhall Craft Fair showcases a real cornucopia of craft goods and in the countdown to Christmas offers an innovative and alternative array of gift ideas.
This year the range will included traditional and contemporary handcrafted fashion, textiles, accessories, jewellery, ceramics, woodturning, cosmetics, specialty food and confectionery.
With the focus on promoting quality handmade products for the local and tourism markets, crafters are asked only to submit work of their own unique design, made here in Ireland.
If you have a handmade craft product which you would like to bring to the fair, the deadline for applications is Wednesday 16th September 2015 at 4pm. Selection criteria and application forms can be found atwww.derrycityandstrabanedistrict.com/craft.
Hard copies can be obtained from Derry City and Strabane District Council offices, Strand Rd. For more information T: 028 7137 6506 or Email: [email protected]
