Wonderworks Contemporary Craft Fair at Chagford, 2019
It's nearly time for Wonderworks, my favourite show of the year. There are other more splendid, larger or sophisticated shows where the public arrive in their thousands but I have always enjoyed Wonderworks the most. The fact that Christmas is just around the corner when I pack my display stand and jewellery into the van to head off to Chagford means that there is a festive air to the setting up, tinsel and fairy lights appear brighter in the early dusk of the near midwinter.
As an artist hoping to sell, Christmas roaring up towards us all means that my audience is in the mood to not only express delight at all they see but also to purchase gifts for those hard to appeal to friends and relatives.
Curated by two gifted ceramicists
Alison West and Abigail North have managed this event for 16 years (by 2019) alongside making and exhibiting their own work throughout the year. Over thirty artists exhibit their unique designs and handcrafted pieces, working in metal, glass, leather, textiles, ceramics, together with artisan foodstuffs and toiletries.
While many small shows arrive on the scene only to fade out when the enthusiasm of the organisers wanes, Wonderworks endures thanks to the careful selection of exhibitors ensuring there will be no overlap of styles or a lowering of quality.
Chagford is a gem of a small town, nestling in amongst the hills of NE Dartmoor.
We exhibit in the light and spacious Jubilee Hall, close by the Church and heart of the town. Perhaps the town has something special in the water as quality entertainment and the arts seems to be a growing feature - Chagstock 2-day music festival, Chagword literary festival, a film festival and the Chagford Show where country and town meet up for the year's biggest social event. Quirky and quality shops, great food and drink and beautiful surrounding countryside make the town a great holiday or day out destination, regardless of the season.
Wonderworks in 2019 is being held over the weekend of 14th/15th December, 10am to 5pm both days. Catering is provided and parking is available on-street and in the car park immediately beside the Jubilee Hall.
Have a lovely day out and come and see me for a chat or to buy a unique Christmas gift for that special person in your life.