It’s been a week since I took part in the amazing Craft Festival in Bovey Tracey, Devon and I thought I’d pop some photos on my blog of the process and event itself!
I last exhibited here over 10 years ago – pre having my son and pre working as a bridal accessories designer so it felt all very new again.
It all began (after months and months of making and planning).. on Weds 4th June attempting to fit everything into my car ready for the long journey down to Devon. Managed to just about get everything in and off I went..
I arrived Wednesday afternoon and decided to pop to a beach near my accommodation to really get into Devon life! I love to swim and the waters here at Maidencombe did not disappoint, I even saw a dolphin! Next, I headed to my accommodation to try get some rest for what I knew was going to be some full on days ahead.
9am Thursday, I arrived to my stand after being directed by the nicest staff and volunteers. I think there was around 200 artists and makers – the event is huge! Looking at those white walls though was very daunting – I had mapped out the space exactly in my living room – but suddenly it looked ever so big!
Bit by bit and 10 hours later it looked like this!
The festival opened its doors on Friday morning at 10am. Over the course of the weekend they welcomed 10,000 visitors! There was rarely a quiet moment and I spoke to so many wonderful people.
It was a whirlwind of a few days, I had such a wonderful response to my new work – it was all beautifully overwhelming and has given me much more confidence moving forwards.
I also found out last week that I won the Peoples Choice Award! Where the visitors voted for their favourite stand – I couldn’t believe it! What an honour thank-you so much!
The final morning (Sunday) I headed to Elberry Cove for a sunrise dip in the most gloriously clear and calm waters. I sat on the pebbly beach afterwards watching the gentle waves and had a moment of gratitude for everything that had happened over the weekend and for where I find myself in my life right now.
So I’m home now, slowly digesting an amazing event ran so smoothly by Sarah James MBE and the team and feeling so glad I pressed that ‘apply’ button last year! Last week I rested, chilled with the trees and slowly unpacked everything and cleaned my studio. This week however its back to the desk getting ready for my next event – The Hepworth Wakefield Ceramics Fair. Maybe see you there?
Thanks for reading,
Marie
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