The Winter Arts Market, Merseyside’s largest arts and crafts market, is returning to St George’s Hall.
Taking place in the lead-up to Christmas on 7 and 8 December (10 am to 5pm), the event is a modern arts and crafts fair which offers something for all ages and features work from over 200 artists, designers and makers.
The grade I listed St George’s Hall will be transformed into a into a bustling market with thousands of items for sale including intricate handmade jewellery, contemporary accessories, screen printed gig posters, original paintings, tableware, beauty products, colourful decorations, accessories, cards, textiles, photography, knitwear and more.
For the first time the event will also feature a Vintage Fair in the Concert Room, which was designed by Charles Cockerell and refurbished in 2006. A magnificent circular room in cream and gold, the space will compliment the vintage fair and is an excellent example of early Victorian interior design.
Shoppers can also relax and enjoy some food and drink in the North Entrance reception space, which overlooks historic William Brown Street. Specialty teas and mulled wine and cider will be on offer from Alison Appleton of the Baltic Triangle, new takes on festive cakes will be baked by The Albion Bakehouse including Mini Christmas Cakes and Mince Pie Muffins and homemade savoury treats, hot food and pasties from Balbero’s of Lark Lane.
A children’s arts workshop will be hosted by KECS Creative underneath the organ and artists from Arena Studios will offer paid workshops for visitors to create their own crafty gifts. Activities will include constructing custom 3D laser cut stag heads and handmade paper snowflake decorations.
On both days visitors can also enjoy live music in the Crown Court. From 12 noon on Saturday; Liverpool Chamber Choir, Tom George, Liverpool Shanty Kings and the Splintered Ukes. And from 1pm on Sunday; Mellowtone and Silent Sleep have created special day with live music from Nick Ellis, Ragz Nordset and Silent Sleep with special guest to be announced!
Liverpool social enterprise Open Culture have organised the event in partnership with St George’s Hall annually since 2009, aiming to provide the public a chance to access affordable handmade work directly from artists and makers.
Charlotte Corrie, Open Culture Director said “To celebrate the fifth year of the Winter Arts Market we have worked with St George’s Hall to make it bigger and better than ever. A new Vintage Fair will take place in the beautiful Concert Room and we are excited to open up the North Entrance to a festive food hall.”
Designer-maker and Winter Arts Market exhibitor Amy Lawrence said “The Winter Arts Market is a fantastic platform for local and emerging designer/makers like myself to showcase our work. I love having the chance to talk to customers about my craft, and the stunning setting creates a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to buy extra special handmade pieces and to show your support for designers in the UK. I look forward to it every year”
£2 entry. Children under 16 years enter for FREE
For more details and a preview of some of the exhibitors visit www.winterartsmarket.com
