30 Drawing on the success of other retail events that Andy runs at the venue, such as Art in the Pen, now in its 18th year, and Crafts in the Pen, entering its ninth year, these events combined welcome over 8000 visitors each year. “Visitors are more interested in the quality of the showcased work than the venue itself. We also have free parking for up to four-hundred vehicles and an onsite café,” shares Lynan. Since its inception, the event has experienced remarkable growth. This year, a staggering 160 makers are set to exhibit their creations this March, presenting a diverse array of products encompassing fine art, metals, woodwork, jewellery, glass, homeware, gifts, textiles, and textile art. Reflecting on the event’s initial year in 2023, Andy said: ‘We had around seventy-five exhibitors for our first event in 2023. It was a punt for both the makers and the trade buyers visiting, but it paid off. It was such a friendly and positive show with lots of happy attendees on both sides. But getting the trade in was a challenge. Many galleries and store owners told us they wouldn’t attend until we had more exhibitors. We’ve now done that, we’ve doubled them. Please come and support them and don’t miss out on this range of work’. FOSTERING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY Unlike many trade shows that feature numerous talks and prizes, ArtisanMadeuk deliberately avoids them. The event is crafted by the participating artists, who want to prioritise staying at their stalls, engaging with customers, and showcasing their work. In the spirit of fostering a sense of community, ArtisanMadeuk shuns competition and prizes amongst its exhibitors, emphasising collaboration among artists, working together to promote British handmade craftsmanship. It is about community, not competition. Exclusively for trade professionals, the event welcomes galleries, garden centres, tourist information centres, museums, gift shops, independent stores, and all retailers interested in promoting and selling high-quality handmade goods. Located in Skipton, a charming market town and civil parish in the Craven district of North Yorkshire, ArtisanMadeuk benefits from its proximity to Leeds (30 miles) and York (40 miles). Skipton, voted as the ultimate location to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in 2014, offers an inviting atmosphere with numerous pubs, cafes, and dining options. For those requiring overnight accommodations, a variety of hotels, B&Bs, and selfcatering options are available. The Skipton Travelodge is just a thirty-second drive or a three-minute walk from Skipton Auction Mart and serves as the nearest hotel. For those who prefer a livelier city stay, Leeds is conveniently located just a 30-minute train ride away. ArtisanMadeuk opens its doors on: Saturday 23rd March, 10am4pm, Sunday 24th March, 9am-4pm. Be sure to explore the website for a comprehensive overview of the event, view the artist directory and to register your attendance at www.artisanmadeuk.com
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