Food producers and artists from across the region will be showcased at the biggest ever Christmas Art and Food Market and Harley Open Studios at Welbeck this weekend.
With more than 60 artist-makers and 30 food stalls, the three day event opening this Friday (25 November) has grown over its 16 year lifespan to become an essential date for festive shopping.
Among the artists showing their wares are two artists inspired by the heritage of Nottingham – one its industrial past and another its lacemaking tradition.
Under the brand J.C. Middlebrook, Jayne Childs from Cotgrave makes stunning lace jewellery, homewares and gifts. Jayne was originally inspired by the industrial heritage of her youth and her hometown of Nottingham and now combines traditional motif with contemporary colour and shape to create new classics.
The second artist is Jade Doran, based in Daybrook, who makes homewares such as candle holders and plant pots from concrete and decorates them with authentic Nottingham lace and copper highlights.
Among the food line up in the courtyard will be six exhibiting at the event for the first time including Nottinghamshire based sauce producers, Sauce Shop and Sovereign Spirits from Clipstone as well English Wine and Rapeseed Oil producers.
The exhibitors are selected by experts from The Harley Gallery and award-winning Welbeck Farm Shop. Visitors can look forward to traditional crafts and cutting-edge design, plus a selection of artisan food focussing on low food miles; with beer, cheese and bread all produced on the historic Welbeck estate.
Susan Sherrit, The Harley Gallery Manager, said: “Once again we are showing a range of exhibitors who make unusual, fantastic Christmas gifts. While some friendly faces return for another year, visitors will also be able to browse work from 21 new exhibitors. Visitors are sure to find the perfect gift – and at prices to suit all pockets.”
Ones to watch include:
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Charlotte Willis, from Hertfordshire, who makes layered and lit pictures from cut plywood
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Michaela McMillan, from Rugby, who will be showing witty, detailed sculptures
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Richard Airey, who creates exquisite knives, based in Doncaster
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‘Newcomer of the Year 2016’ (British Craft Trade Fair) ceramicist Meghan Downs
In the Courtyard, the food market will include over 30 stalls which have been selected by the ever-popular Welbeck Farm Shop. Welbeck’s own brewery, bakery and dairy will be accompanied by other artisans from across the region. The Courtyard will also be host to The School of Artisan Food’s wood fired pizza oven.
Welbeck Farm Shop Manager Oliver Stubbins said: “The Food Market will bring together the finest festive foods the region has to offer. Local produce includes vegetables from the fantastic Rhubarb Farm, local honey, jams, cakes, spirits and much more.”
Fifteen artists at The Harley Studios will be opening their doors over the weekend for visitors to explore and buy direct from the artists.
The Harley Ceramics Studio will also be open for paint-a-pot sessions. A wide range of blank pottery is available, from mugs to money banks, all of which make fantastic personalised Christmas gifts. Sessions cost from £3 and places must be booked in advance by calling 01909 501 700.
The Christmas Art and Food Market takes place in the Courtyard, home to The Portland Collection, The Harley Gallery, Harley Cafe and Welbeck Farm Shop, and through to The Harley Studios. The event is open from 10am daily and visitors are advised to arrive early. Parking and entry is FREE.
Visit www.harleygallery.co.uk for more information.
