Creative crafts in High Town for May

Once again Hereford High Town will be alive with creative talent this Saturday, May 31, with the second craft market of 2008 organised by Herefordshire Council.

Thirty stalls of affordable, original design from local craft makers will take centre stage in the town, bringing handmade art and craft to the city centre all day, from 9am to 5pm.

These popular markets are now well established in the local art and craft community, and shoppers in the know can browse a wide range of handcrafted work at reasonable prices. Some artists featured are high profile national makers - others less well known, but creative with fresh designs will also be there.

Bryony Burn makes stunning ceramics and sells through many leading British galleries. Don't miss your chance to meet the artist and buy direct! Bryony designs for production and runs classes and workshops - her work inspired by nature's patterns and 1950's textiles and wallpapers. Each piece is hand painted to ensure individuality, the surfaces built up with layers of slip and glaze, often scratched away to reveal the clay.

Frances Harvey works in wood in the Golden Valley. Carefully hand-turned and lettered oak bowls will feature alongside peg rails, breadboards and other items for the house and garden. Everything made in locally sourced sustainable hardwoods, find something functional and attractive made by a local craftsperson.

For the quirky with a vintage feel, don't miss Anya Keeley's beautifully crafted sculptural artefacts from found, donated and reclaimed objects - something truly original with a Herefordshire feel. Emma Waller will show her Glacier Studio Glass, ranging through enamelled and decorative panels, to tableware and gifts, and Shivani Patel's jewellery has a firm following amongst collectors in the Herefordshire jewellery scene.

With painting, prints, photography and cards, bookbinding, calligraphy and baskets - there will be something to suit all tastes in this large and eclectic one-day show within the heart of the city.

Herefordshire Council crafts officer Rachel Pritchard said: "This May show will be the biggest yet, as the market's reputation has grown. We can showcase work from really super makers for our special Herefordshire audience of craft collectors and shoppers - those people with a genuine love for hand made and lovingly crafted work.

"The range of work will be really broad, so if you're shopping for household functional craft, sculptural or decorative objects, you should be able to find a one-off hand made piece of craft to keep and enjoy."

The next Craft Market is planned for Saturday, September 20, to coincide with Herefordshire Art Week 2008.

Buyers, collectors, shoppers and browsers - whether your looking for gifts or something for your own space, be inspired and enjoy this market of traditional and contemporary art and craft on Saturday, May 31, (Between The Old House and The Butter Market) from 9am-5pm.

For further information, call Andy Dawson on (01432) 383064, or e-mail adawson@herefordshire.gov.uk.