Celebrating its 19th year, the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is back at Manchester’s stunning Victoria Baths for the next three days, bringing a world of creativity and craftsmanship to one of the city’s most iconic venues.
More than 200 handpicked contemporary artists and makers are showcasing their work, including over 70 making their GNCCF debut, with the spectacular Grade II* listed building providing a pretty special backdrop.
If you’re on the hunt for Christmas gifts with a difference, this is the place to be.
From wood, paper, metal and ceramics to wool, fine art, glass and much more, there’s an incredible variety of talent to discover, all set among the venue’s beautiful Edwardian features, including the Turkish Baths and original changing cubicles.
There’s plenty going on, too, with drop-in pottery sessions and live craft demonstrations adding to the buzz. And when you need a breather, you can take a seat in the licensed café and soak up the atmosphere.
We headed along to the heaving preview night yesterday and were blown away by the sheer talent on display. If you love discovering something a little different, this one is well worth a visit!
Sarah Hilditch, of Handmade at Harcles (balcony 13) was a firm favourite of mine, with her vibrant, colourful rugs making everyone stop and stare. Working with wool from her own flock of rare-breed sheep, she transforms local fleeces into beautiful, bespoke pieces for the home. Passionate about sustainability and making the most of natural fibres, she’s on a mission to show just how much potential there is in British wool.
We also loved Helen Foot’s effort to keep nostalgia alive with her beautifully bold scarves and bears, blending traditional craft with contemporary aesthetic (balcony 05).
And who doesn’t have room for a cute little monster in their home? Illustrator and monster make Emma O’Brien returns this year (balcony 22) with a fabulous array of funky-looking fiends, which all come with an illustrated tag (and a name). And with no two the same, you can come away with some delightful, bespoke and cuddly Christmas presents.
On the jewellery front, my eyes were fixed on Charlotte Reid Jewellery (stand B52). Her pieces are frivolous and absolutely gorgeous. Formed through playing with material and shapes, manipulating different metals, she experiments with different textures, stones and colour.
And definitely no shortage of fun from Gregg Sealey at GPlank (stand B59). He creates unique pieces using locally sourced recycled timber gathered from his travels throughout Yorkshire! His unmistakable style shines through his creations including giant ice creams and a VW Camper Van.
I could go on and on, but there are so many talented people here to mention – so the best thing to do is get down here and check them out for yourself!
Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is a not-for-profit organisation. Supporting the event helps it champion makers at every stage of their careers, from providing opportunities for graduates and early-career makers to awarding bursaries and delivering its outreach programme.
Find the event at Victoria Baths, Hathersage Road, Manchester M13 0FE. It’s on:
Today (October 16) 10am – 6pm
Saturday (October 17) 10am – 6pm
Sunday (October 18) 10am – 4pm
Ticket Prices in advance are £8.85 for adults or £12 on the door, with adult concessions available at £7.59 advance or £9 on the door. Miss it, miss out! Buy tickets here.
For help with directions and parking click here.
