Press Release

Be Creative This Christmas At The Guildhall Craft Fair

Monday, 13 November 2006

Stay one step ahead this Christmas and get all your gifts at the Guildhall Craft Fair which runs throughout this weekend, 17th-19th November. There’s something for everyone at this year’s event with some of the best handmade jewellery, textiles, art ceramics and sculpture to be found anywhere.

One of the craft fairs most regular contributors is Michael Griffin from Raw Studio in Donegal. He specialises in bog wood sculpture - and all pieces are absolutely unique and individual.

“All my sculptures are inspired by the natural shape of the wood and I carve each piece depending on what its shape and style naturally suggests. I’ve had a recurring ‘Bird’ theme in my work but really anything goes!

“I love going to the Guildhall Craft Fair because it’s such a lovely setting. The Guildhall really is an exceptional venue and it’s a great way of introducing more people to my work.

“After eight years in this business, I’ve been to a lot of craft fairs in many different cities but I’ll always keep coming back to Derry. It’s been great for trade and I’ve made a lot of useful contacts over the years.”

Commenting on the range of contributors to this years Craft Fair, Elaine Griffin from Derry City Council’s Economic Development section said:

“Visitors won’t be disappointed with the calibre and range of items available. We actively seek artists, craftspeople and sculptors of the highest quality who are constantly developing new ideas, colours, textures and designs.

“This is an exciting event and add to that the wide range of high quality retailers and outlets within Derry City Centre and you have a shopping experience second to none.

“I think the Guildhall Craft Fair will be more popular this year than ever before. If you only visit one city before Christmas - make it Derry.”

The Craft Fair opens on Friday 17th November from 4pm-8pm; Saturday 18th November from 10am-6pm and Sunday 19th November from 11am-5pm. Entrance fee is £1.

For more information about what’s on offer go online at: www.derrycity.gov.uk/crafts

Ends

For additional information contact:

Press Office

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