I can’t remember the last time it rained, it’s been a couple of months. The grass is largely dead and it’s been a struggle to keep everything watered and alive in our garden which already has very dry soil…well dust really! Having said that there’s still been so much to enjoy.
Absolutely spectacular! I first saw a few pieces of his work at an exhibition of at the Hayward in the mid-eighties and have been a fan ever since, it’s always exciting and visually varied but similar themes. We tagged on to a guided tour which was really insightful and well worth doing if you visit.
I sold a tremendous amount of my little upcycled first aid purses in June, specifically via my Etsy shop. I thought it must be the algorithm going crazy. I mentioned this on an Instagram posts and one lovely customer saw it and messaged me to say she had bought it after seeing it in the July issue of Country Living! I had no idea at all, really rather lovely!
Maybe my favourite artist, seeing a Hepworth work is always an incredible thrill so this place is just magical for me. I’ve been several times over the years and very much look forward to my next visit!
TATE ST.IVES. Art and architecture my favourite combination! This artist had the most fascinating career progression. She was obviously completely obsessed with the creation of textures and movement first in 2D art and then in really experimental architecture. I’m definitely going to explore her work further.
FRIDA” THE MAKING OF AN ICON & TRACEY EMIN: A SECOND LIFE : TATE MODERN. I had been to the Tracey Emin exhibition when it opened in February and hadn’t enjoyed it that much but this time I went with my daughter, first to the Frida Kahlo then (after a cup of coffee) into the Tracey Emin exhibition. I really recommend doing it that way round because it was so incredible to see the parallels in their work and lives as female artists… even down to the black cats.
Having said all that we were a bit disappointed in the Frida Kahlo show, it’s always lovely to see her work but this was a bit superficial with no real insights into the image appropriation and commodification that occurs with the ‘making of an icon’.
A few things in the garden this month, despite the heat everything is growing like mad…except the grass that is, which has dried up and has holes dug by foxes everywhere.
This really is the most fantastic event, 200 exhibitors, talks, workshops, food and kids activities. I only wish I could have been able to spend more time looking at all the beautiful work on show; a lot of jewellery and ceramics of course but also basket making, furniture, knitwear, leather, printmaking, textle art. The visitors at Bovey Tracey are so lovely, very appreciative and knowledgeable about handmade craft, often actually makers themselves. A couple of times I was asked sewing advice which was great to be able to help.
I was really pleased with how my stand design worked out, my daughter said “It looks really inviting”. It was just as busy as last year but I felt much more confident and comfortable this year; last year had been my first proper show and this one was my fourth. My sales were dramatically up on last year and on the other shows I’ve done, but more important than that was the feedback and discussion about the designs epecially about the new ones. The garden collection aprons made all the difference, I guess they have a broader appeal. Also there was huge interest in the calico toiles of the forthcoming ‘Home Collection’! Sold several potters aprons but oddly only sold a couple of bags.
Also very pleased with the bunting I made at the last minute!
So the main thing on my mind this last week has been collecting and ordering fabric swatches for new collections and checking things, like whether they have a consistant supply. I plan to bring this sample of a new design apron, in pink organic canvas, to my stand at Craft Festival Bovey Tracey in 2 weeks (eek!).
I was really struck by the beautiful drawings and prep work. The intricate model-making is breathtaking, even when it’s MASSIVE like the pirates ship which goes right up to the ceiling! You can also try your hand at stop frame animation. An exhibition for older children and adults. Young V&A, London. On until 15 November 2026.
