I am so pleased that FRESH Artisan Market will be back at the Shoe Factory on Bank Holiday Monday. This has been a very difficult year for makers, with so many events and makers markets being cancelled due to the pandemic. I have worked really hard to bring this market back to Norwich and hope we can all enjoy a safe and inspiring day with the makers that make this event so special.

One of my passions since 2016 has been to promote the talents of local makers through markets in various venues in Norwich and North Norfolk. This Summer I have been involved in a project with LoveHolt, curating and organising a contemporary craft market in Appleyard in the town every Sunday in July and August. The impact of the Covid Pandemic has been far reaching and many makers have lost considerable revenue due to the cancellation of many events. This outdoor market offered them a chance to restablish contact with their followers and sell new work. It also was a welcome opportunity to reconnect with other makers in a safe and positive environment. With the slight ease on restrictions and the introduction of face coverings being worn in indoor retail spaces, we have also introduced a pop up indoor market in The Old Bookshop. Open 11-3 every Sunday until 30 August.

This Saturday 4 April should have been the first of the FRESH artisan markets that I curate and organise at Back to the Garden in Letheringsett, near Holt.

Sadly the Coronavirus pandemic has meant that we cannot hold our Artisan & Makers Markets as planned in the coming Spring months, so I have created an online presence instead and hope that you will support these talented local makers and their creative process by visiting their websites and online shops.

I am passionate about supporting local makers and producers wherever possible, I have been visiting local shops instead of the big supermarkets that are within walking distance of where I live, to buy fresh food, fruit and vegetables, trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay fit and well.

I have added a batch of plant dyed COLOURS OF NORFOLK™ yarns to my online shop and am offering a 10%discount until midnight on Saturday. There’s some lovely laceweight with a touch of silk in indigo blues and pinks and the very popular 4 ply mini skeins in a range of colours, perfect for colour work projects.

Stay safe and look forward to seeing you online soon,

Aviva x