From Dunfermline Garden Shed to National Showcase
A Dunfermline ceramicist, who runs a business from her garden shed, is preparing to take part in a national showcase of creativity.
Jo Walker of Jo Walker Ceramics, who has lived in Crossford for 25 years, is one of nearly 80 independent designers descending on the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh this weekend for the Tea Green Events summer market.
In what is their debut capital city event, Tea Green Events’ market will run from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 August, returning with their festive market in November.
The markets’ arrival in Edinburgh is a fitting end to the Scottish company’s record-breaking run of summer markets to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Markets have also been held at Aberdeen Art Gallery, The Burrell Collection and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, V&A Dundee and Bowhouse in Fife.
Jo, who originally studied jewellery design at Edinburgh College of Art, added, “Tea Green markets have made a huge difference to the way craft is portrayed in Scotland. In the past, art and craft have been viewed as two distinct things, with art on a pedestal and craft seen as something you tinker away with at a kitchen table. The markets have boosted the status of craft and elevated it to a presence it deserves. People are starting to see how much goes into making things, how much skill is involved and, with that, we’re seeing more mindful consumers. People want to know how things are made, to understand why goods are priced the way they are priced, and to understand the process. It’s fantastic to see that shift away from mass consumerism.
“Face-to-face engagement is also so valuable, really connecting with your customers. There have been many occasions where I’ve had an unexpected conversation with someone which has allowed me to look at what I do differently, revisit something or look at it a new light. For that reason, and coupled with the phenomenal setting of the National Galleries of Scotland, I’m really looking forward to the Tea Green market, having new conversations and being part of what will be an amazing showcase of Scotland’s creativity.
“Of course, the markets also give independent artists and designers a chance to connect with other creatives. There’s a really strong creative sector building in the Dunfermline area, alongside a thriving music scene. If these markets can bring creatives together, and encourage more talent to come through in the process, that can only be a good thing for the local and national economy.”
Specialising in carefully curated markets within some of Scotland’s most stunning creative spaces, Tea Green Events was launched by Dundee jeweller Joanne MacFadyen who added, “Our arrival in Edinburgh represents a huge milestone for Tea Green Events and is a fitting finale to end our biggest ever summer run of markets which have been absolutely amazing.
“It’s extra special to be working within such a prestigious space in a superb location, a prospect I know the artists and designers are just as excited by. Because of the huge number of tourists visiting Edinburgh at this time, it’s a real privilege to be showcasing the very best of Scottish craftsmanship, beautiful hand-crafted pieces of work made by some truly talented individuals. We’ll have everything from jewellery and prints to knitwear, letterpress stationery and ceramics, truly something for everyone!”
For more information about Tea Green Markets and the programme of events, visit https://www.teagreen.co.uk/
ENDS