Designers urged to apply for contemporary craft fair

Preparations are now under way for the fifteenth Hereford Contemporary Craft Fair, running from November 14 until November 16 at The Courtyard Centre for the Arts, and applications are invited from contemporary designer makers working in traditional and non-traditional media.

Selection will consider the best in design and technical skill. Apply now for 2008, for this important regional showcase of the finest in contemporary craft from Herefordshire and around the UK. No commission is taken on sales.

A New Exhibitor Award is open to Herefordshire makers applying for the first time and includes a subsidised stand and extra promotion. A Best Product Award is also made, as voted by visitors to the fair, and the Mike Gell Jewellery Gallery sponsors a special stand for the Alloy Jewellery Group graduate.

The deadline for applications is Monday, April 14.

There was a 10 per cent rise in visitor numbers last year, and exhibitors also reported overall sales up by 3.4 per cent on 2006. They told us:

· "Exceeded my expectations in terms of sales!"
· "I made contact with a well-known collector (featured in Crafts magazine) and she bought a piece from me"
· "I met local collectors, and there's a possible magazine article and gallery exhibition"

For an application form, or further information, contact Rachel Pritchard, Crafts Officer, Cultural Services, Herefordshire Council, PO Box 4, Plough Lane, Hereford, HR4 0XH, call 01432 260129, e-mail rpritchard@herefordshire.gov.uk, or request one from the website at http://www.craftfair.uk.com/