Teaching pottery and wood turning, and creating unique ceramic, wood turned and silk gifts & art
Proud sponsors of the “Once Upon A Norfolk” Facebook group
SPRING ARTISAN FAYRE
SUNDAY 14 APRIL 2024
An Event To Remember & More To Come!
Simon and I are so happy that our fundraiser for Mind, the Spring Artisan Fayre - and the first of many - was even more successful than we hoped it would be.
We are thrilled with the lovely, positive comments from the talented artists who had faith in and attended this event, and the numerous encouraging and fabulously supportive remarks made by the visitors who attended in their droves on the day.
The car park filled up within the first 30 minutes of opening and we were pleasantly overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown both in buying raffle tickets to win the beautiful prizes which had been created and donated by each and every one of our wonderful artisans, as well as the donations and purchases from our pop-up café.
ALL the profits are going to Mind, a charity that Simon and I hold dear to our hearts and for whom we've fundraised in the past.
We're still waiting to announce the final figure raised as we're expecting a few more donations to come our way from those who couldn't attend the event but wanted to contribute in some way.
Our next Artisan Fayres are on
SUNDAY 4 AUGUST (Summer Artisan Fayre)
&
SUNDAY 20 OCTOBER (Autumn/Winter Artisan Fayre)
Scroll to the end of the article to see photographs of the day & if you'd like to donate towards our Mind fundraiser, you can do so here.
Artist Feedback
SPRING ARTISAN FAYRE
SUNDAY 14 APRIL 2024
A wonderful collection of Fenland & East Anglian artists, creators & makers who are selling their work and demonstrating their crafts. All profits are going to MIND, a charity close to our hearts.
Simon & I here at Blended Monkey are sponsoring the Spring Artisan Fayre to showcase some of the amazing local Fenland & East Anglian artists, creators & makers, while at the same time raise funds for MIND, a worthy charity that we have fundraised for in the past.
Join us at Upwell Hall on the Norfolk/Cambs border - New Rd, Upwell, PE14 9AB - from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm on Sunday 14 April to experience a great selection of local makers, creators & artists.
Some will be demonstrating their crafts (including a unique storytelling demonstration by Tales from the Fen) and we also have SUGARCRAFT and MOSAIC MAKING WORKSHOPS for you to book along with INDIAN HEAD MASSAGES for you to enjoy.
Click on the links above to book each workshop or experience.
ENTRY IS FREE and there is ample parking at the hall. Yummy locally-made snacks & cakes will be available in the pop-up café with tables & seating provided in the tearoom area.
All event profits (stallholder fees, food income, raffle tickets) are going to MIND, a charity close to our hearts, which provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
We spend a lot of our time offering creative therapy workshops to people who are suffering with poor mental health, recovering from brain trauma, or who generally need to get away from the pressures of everyday life and immerse themselves in something creative and relaxing.
We hope you can join us!
WORKSHOPS & ATTRACTIONS
Most of our artists will be demonstrating their crafts throughout the day, but we also have some scheduled workshops & services that you can pre-book by clicking on the links below
Indian Head Massages
Tracey from the fabulous Remedy Room in Denver is offering the chance to pre-book your 30-minute relaxing Indian head massage for a fabulous £20.00 HERE or £25.00 for drop-in appointments on the day!
Sugarcraft Workshops
Decorate a trio of beautiful blossom biscuits with Claire from the wonderful Cake Occasions, by Claire!
These 30-45-minute workshops are being held at 11.30 am, 1.00 pm and 2.30 pm.
Book your workshop HERE.
Mosaic Coaster Workshops
Create your own sparkly mosaic coaster with Muni from the amazing Muni's Mosaics!
These approx. 1-hour workshops are being held at 10.30 am, 12.30 pm and 2.00 pm and cost just £7.00.
Book your workshop HERE.
Fenland Folklore Stories
Join Lizzie on her Tales from the Fen stand to see a lino printing demonstration with a difference!
Lizzie will talk about how Fenland folklore has inspired her work with the help of storyteller, Marianne, who will be sharing some of the stories that have inspired the artwork presented by Tales from the Fen.
This magical experience is FREE, lasts approx. 30 minutes - taking place at 11.00 am and 2.00 pm.
The stories are suitable for 14+.
Marianne - storyteller
Lizzie's work "Tales from the fen"
ATTENDING ARTISTS & DEMONSTRATORS
The list keeps on growing! So check in regularly to see additions.
CHRISTINE PIKE, MA
Artist & Sculptor
I make work that tells stories. From tap-dancing mice to otherworldly beings, my sculpture spans a wide range of subject matter and scale, with one central theme: a joyful appreciation of nature and our relationship to it, viewed through the lens of folktales & myth.
I exhibit throughout the UK & Europe and hold an MA from Norwich University of the Arts.
I work in paperclay, jesmonite, and mixed media, and teach workshops throughout the UK in paperclay sculpting.
Christine will be demonstrating her craft on the day.
HADDENHAM ARTS CENTRE
Haddenham Arts Centre is a cultural hub that uses the Arts to enrich lives through the active engagement of artistic experience and creation.
For over 20 years we have been presenting exciting and original artwork for sale from local, regional and national artists and makers.
Our Centre is the perfect place to browse and buy gorgeous artwork and gifts.
We have a gorgeous garden for a stroll and an on-site café providing light lunches.
We offer a full program of events. From creative workshops, seasonal fairs and pop up shops, to regular community events with our Good Mood Cafe and monthly mid-week Cinema screenings sponsored by MIND.
Our gift shop features a wide range of cards from Art Angels, Green Pebble, Roger La Borde, Simon Drew, Hadley and Individual artists cards.
You can shop delightful local handmade soaps from the Isle Soap Company, a range of Angela Harding journals, jigsaws and tea towels, adorable felt creatures from Felt So Good alongside sustainable paper goods from East End Press.
We are also home to seven studios providing affordable space where artists, both established and emerging, can create, exhibit and sell their work.
THE SPECULATING ROOK
BY ANNA OSBORNE
Textile Artist
I work with old and new textiles to make individual pieces for interiors including cushions, curtains, footstools and lightshades.
Combining free machine embroidery and screen printing, my designs are inspired by the colours and shapes of the local East Anglian landscape.
I work from my studio at Haddenham Arts Centre and I'm open by appointment.
TALES FROM THE FEN
BY LIZZIE AULT
Fine Artist
I create illustrative fine art and homewares inspired by the folklore, flora and fauna of East Anglia. I use observation, imagination and a sprinkling of the fantastical to create striking imagery that evokes a sense of connection with the landscape and a celebration of East Anglian heritage; the wildlife, characters, stories and places that hold visceral memories from history.
I make works on paper including lino print, drypoint etching and collage.
I studied BA Fine Art Painting at University of Wales Institute Cardiff. I have been practising as an artist and designer for over 15 years. I grew up in urban Kent and rural Oxfordshire. I now live and practice in Ely, Cambridgeshire.
Lizzie will be demonstrating her craft on the day.
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SEMPERART GLASS
BY JUNE MASSEY
Fused Glass Artist
After a lifelong love of glass I was thrilled to have the opportunity to make a small fused glass coaster nine years ago and decided to pursue what I thought would be a hobby.
After several courses, a great deal of research and a lot of experimentation with different types of glass, processes and fusing temperatures (including a lot of trial and error, which is all part of growing my art) I felt that it was time for me to take the leap and spend more time exploring the art that I love. It was one of my finer and more inspired decisions!
I now design and make the fused glass pieces in my studio at home in Cambridgeshire. Every piece is unique and has a character of its own.
For me, glass can be both beautiful and functional, so I make a range of products to use, to look at and to enjoy.
One of the greatest pleasures as an artist is to encourage people in my workshops to tap into their creative skills and use the materials in innovative ways; the results are amazing!
MUNI'S MOSAICS
BY MAHEMUDA ARSALANI
Mosaic Artist
My passion for mosaic started over 20 years ago, when I was introduced to the art of mosaic, whilst living & working in Brunei, SE Asia. After attending a basic beginner’s workshop, I was immediately hooked! I have always loved drawing and painting, however, mosaics brought along a new dimension of art that I'd never considered, yet felt like a "homecoming" and I instantly knew I had found my calling.
From here, I embarked on my own journey of research & exploration - inspired by the ancient history behind this beautiful and versatile art form and discovered the vast range of materials and techniques that could be applied.
I mostly work with glass and porcelain, often incorporating natural and found objects such as stone, shell and semi-precious gems into my pieces. I continue to explore and experiment, dedicating most of my time to creating new and exciting pieces of both decorative and functional mosaics, from my home studio in Peterborough. I exhibit my work regularly and also offer workshops for both adults and children in and around Cambridgeshire.
Muni will be demonstrating her craft on the day and offering workshops.
Pre-book HERE
CAKE OCCASIONS
BY CLAIRE
Sugarcraft Artist
I make and decorate cakes for special occasions. I specialise in sugar flowers and hold the PME Diploma Masters Certificate.
I also hold workshops for children & adults in my home cake kitchen where we decorate cakes, cupcakes and biscuits, whilst learning a range of sugarcraft skills.
I offer 1:1, mother & daughter and group classes.
Claire will be demonstrating her craft on the day & offering workshops.
Pre-book HERE
CREATIVE CRAFTORIUM
BY DEBS MUNFORD
Textile Artist
I produce a range of original one-of-a-kind creative textiles, both in 2D and 3D, which are perfect for gifts or a treat for yourself.
The Creative Craftorium is a specialist creative hub for textiles and mixed media. I set up the studio to provide workshops and tuition in most creative textile techniques including, print, (Lino cut, screen and geli), Cyanotype printing, embroidery, both hand and machine, mixed media creations and 3D textiles.
Workshops can take place in the studio or can be booked to be delivered at a suitable venue.
I am a renowned local artist who has over 30 years' experience in the field of textiles, both as a designer in industry and lecturing in fashion and textiles.
Debs will be demonstrating her craft on the day.
EMILY TOMASI, MA
Mixed Media Artist
I like to mix the light & the dark: the happy & the sad, the cynical & the nostalgic, the irreverent & the serious, the sophisticated & the naive - whether it be in theme or mark making.
I draw, paint, make & craft - all the mediums happily overlap. Some of the sketches make it to ceramics or jewellery or painting. I really like making cats, skulls, shells and plants.
I previously worked as a footwear & accessories designer for Top Shop, Gucci, & Moschino.
Later I worked as a freelance illustrator for Alexander McQueen &Markus Lupfer.
I have set up and co-managed five successful accessories brands winning a UK FT business exporter award.
MAYS WONDERFULLY WOVEN
BY ROSIE MAY
Traditional Hand Weaver
I am a traditional hand weaver based in Stilton, Cambridgeshire. I work with natural materials on traditional wooden looms to handcraft a selection of joyful woven pieces.
I design all the fabrics myself, meticulously mapping out the warp & weft. Each pick is woven by hand, absolutely nothing is automated. I focus on creating sustainable, conscious, & practical products that avoid waste and utilise my hand-woven fabrics and wonderful genuine vintage haberdashery.
Rosie May will be demonstrating her craft on the day.
FATBOB CRAFTS
BY TONY & SORAYA
Leather Artist
Fatbob Crafts was created with the aim of keeping traditional skills at the core of the business, so every item is 100% crafted by hand using age old techiques and hand tools,
Most of my products are produced from premium vegetable tanned leather. Vegetable tanned leather is a hide that has been processed using bark, roots & leaves from trees such as oak which are high in tannins to produce a tanned piece of leather.
Each piece starts life as a blank piece of leather which is hand cut to the appropriate shape & size, then a design may be handtooled onto it & dyed using premium leather dyes & acrylic leather paint. After another 24hrs the piece is then hand saddle stitched using waxed cord & then treated to a minimum of 3 coats of beeswax balm & a finish coat to protect the piece.
FEN MILL CRAFTS
BY SUE & LYNDA
Mixed Media Sculpture
We are certified tutors trained in Powertex. Powertex is an environmentally friendly mixed media product which can be used as a fabric hardener, paint and glue making it a must have mixed media projects.
We host workshops on an individual basis or in groups of up to four people at our cabin in Chatteris.
Where possible we use natural fibres & recycled clothes, as well as other household objects, to create our decorative pieces.
No previous experience with Powertex is necessary to join one of our workshops.
Fen Mill Crafts will be demonstrating their craft on the day.
THE TRAVELLING CROW
BY CHRISTINE & KIT
Gallery
The Travelling Crow is not a bricks and mortar gallery - but neither do we exist solely on the internet. You can see us at art, craft, and specialist events around the UK, where we will be delighted to share our latest finds with you.
We believe the best way to appreciate beautiful, handmade things is to hold them in your hand and learn about the maker and the processes they use.
We love to chat about all aspects of making - so please feel free to ask us any questions!
ANNIE BROWN
Felt Artist
Using the fleece from my wool-only flock of rare breed sheep, I make my needle felted paintings.
The different breeds of sheep offer me a choice of textures and colour.
I also hand-dye the wool, enabling me to obtain the exact colours I like to use in my work.
Although my background is in Fine Art, I am self-taught in needle felting. This has lead me to experiment with materials and techniques not conventionally associated with dry felting.
My work is often very delicate.
My inspiration comes the landscape, the nature within it and the transient beauty of each season.
Living on the Cambridgeshire Fens has influenced my work, as has living by the sea in Kent previously.
Annie will be demonstrating her craft on the day.
CRAFTY CATS
BY EMMA
Recycled Copper & Gem Stone Jewellery Artist
I make handcrafted sustainable and hardwearing bespoke jewellery, using recycled copper wire, recycled beads and gemstones.
My crystals are ethically sourced by my supplier that travels to the miners themselves.
I create unique wearable art that will stand to time and can be passed down to generations to come. I put love and meaning into all my pieces and no one item is the same.
ANDREW MARTIN
Photographer
My entire career has been as a professional photographer, after studying photography at Gloucestershire College of art and Technology. Photography is a very rewarding and enjoyable profession and I have never considered anything else.
I won the prestigious award of "Photographer of the Year" by the British Institute of Professional Photography, of which I am a member, on two occasions.
I set up my own business in 1984, initially working from home in Great Shelford, Cambridge. After 3 years, I opened my own studio/shop in Sawston, Cambridge. Following the success of this, I was able to buy a large family house in Pampisford and set up a private studio there, so was working from home once more.
I now live and work in the beautiful cathedra city of Ely, where I can be found on my stall on Saturdays on the Ely Market. My stall displays examples of my work along with a range of photo gifts, framed and mounted prints in various sizes and canvas wraps to purchase or order.
THE REMEDY ROOM
BY TRACEY TAYLOR
Massage & Soft Tissue Therapist
I help people who are in need of some me-time and those experiencing pain to relax and unwind, relieve tension, move freely and manage pain so that they can get back to thriving in life!
I am a fully qualified massage and soft tissue therapist with many years of experience, providing a variety of treatments from my tranquil garden treatment room, a calming space dedicated to restoration and wellbeing.
I take an entirely holistic approach with all of my clients, creating an experience that benefits not just the physical body, but the whole person.
Tracey will be offering Indian head massages on the day.
Pre-book HERE
SARAH MADSEN
Jewellery Designer & Fine Artist
"I studied at Central St Martins College of Art & Design and graduated with a BA Hons in Jewellery Design. (I had every intention of being a fine artist but fell in love with this craft as well.)
With my Jewellery, I aim to bring quality and design together, to produce carefully crafted jewellery work of heirloom and artistic merit.
I feel extremely proud to be part of the importance of keeping this craft and skills ongoing in the U.K. I mainly work to commissions plus teach private workshops from my studio."
MARIANNE POWELL
Storyteller
I’m a storyteller, songwriter and poet, based in Ely. I grew up in York, so I'm very at home in places with a big cathedral and not many hills.
I trained in storytelling with Roi Gal-Or at the International School of Storytelling. I’m especially interested in the way that folk tales and wonder tales can bring a new perspective to the way we live today.
At this event, I’ll be sharing some of the stories that inspired the artwork presented by Tales from the Fen – helping to bring the places and characters to life.
