Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair: GNCCF Online Christmas Edition

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair : GNCCFonline Christmas Edition, online, 21–22 November 2020, free entry - Visit now

The exquisite Victoria Baths was set to be the new home of this year’s Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair, but sadly, a physical exhibition was not to be. One of the top craft fairs in the UK, makers rely on events such as the award-winning GNCCF for the majority of their income, and so the sector-wide cancellations caused by COVID have had a severe impact. Least to say, the fair is also a calendar highlight for craft-admirers and more general indie-shoppers alike, who flock from far and wide to not only scout out beautiful handmade objects but meet and support the people behind them. For many, the much loved Christmas edition signals the start of the festive season.

Fortunately, all is not lost. Following the success of its digitised show earlier this year, GNCCF is moving online once again with an expertly-curated display of craftsmanship, featuring over 150 exhibitors, including plenty of fresh new names. Bringing together jewellery, textiles, print, furniture, lighting, ceramics, metalwork and glass from some of the country’s leading designer-makers, the virtual fair is an opportune occasion for those looking for more unique and unusual gifts, as well as a great way to help sustain the craft community.

We’re keen fans of Nick James’ traditional woodwork stools, Bryony Applegate’s lattice-like ceramic lampshades, and Helen Beard’s highly-sought-after handpainted porcelain pots bearing playful illustrations of contemporary life. Meanwhile, Jules Hogan’s super-cosy knitted wristwarmers and Robyn Hardyman’s delightfully tubular ceramic vases make for ideal (more budget-friendly) present material.

Whilst lockdown continues, GNCCF Online is the perfect way to experience contemporary craft at its finest and get some Christmas shopping underway without leaving the house. Rather than turning to Amazon, make a makers’ day in whatever way you can and surprise your friends and family this year with something they won’t have already spotted on browsing elsewhere.