Following on from last years successful launch, this year there will be two opportunities to take part in an ‘Inspired’ exhibition. The events will take place at two prestigious locations, each chosen for there excellent exhibiting spaces, facilities and high visitor numbers. Our aim is to showcase the work of some of the finest designer/maker/artists currently working in Britain to both new and established audiences. There will be a strong emphasis on contemporary, innovative work of the highest calibre so excellence and creativity are a must. You are invited to apply to take part in one or both exhibitions:
The Great Oak Hall, Westonbirt - The National Arboretum, Tetbury May 25th – May 30th 2011
The Hayloft Gallery, Ashton Court Estate, Bristol July 16th – 24th 2011
About the venues
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is a very popular attraction located within the beautiful and affluent Cotswolds area. Visitor numbers year round are high with the May Bank holiday statistically being one of the busiest times (Monday 30th). Located at the heart of the Arboretum, The Great Oak Hall is a stunning green Oak cruck building. This contemporary space is flooded with natural daylight and is an ideal venue for displaying work to its best advantage. www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt
Ashton Court is a beautiful 850 acre estate located on the outskirts of Bristol and is one of the finest public open spaces in the south west. Throughout the year it plays host to a number of major events, attracting 1.6 million people annually. At the heart of the grounds, The Hayloft and Saddlery gallery are part of the Ashton Court mansion house and are accessed via the popular courtyard area which is also home to the visitor centre, restaurant and café so casual footfall is guaranteed. The gallery is a light, contemporary space and a perfect setting for exhibiting. www.ashtoncourtestate.co.uk
The details
Please note that you do not need to be present each day as I will be there to represent you. However, you will be very welcome to attend should you wish to.
Furniture designer/makers: Each maker will be able to display two major pieces that ideally have not previously been exhibited elsewhere, preferably made using sustainable materials. (There may be some exceptions depending on the pieces you wish to show, please just ask).
Artists: The number of pieces you will be able to show very much depends on your chosen medium and scale of your work. If you would like to be considered for the either event please call to discuss your display requirements and cost of entry.
Westonbirt: 6 exhibiting days. Selection limited to approximately 16 makers and artists.
Furniture makers £340. Artists £140 - £340
(NB: The Great Oak Hall hire company charge 25% commission on sales made so this
will need to be reflected in your prices)
Ashton court: 9 exhibiting days. Selection limited to approximately 30 makers and artists.
Furniture makers £360, Artists £160 - £360 (No commission will be charged.)
If selected, makers and artists applying for both events will receive a 10%discount. New graduates are encouraged to apply and will receive a 50% fee reduction. (conditions apply)
Marketing and Publicity
The fee will include local and national advertising, local and national press releases, targeted invitations, mailing list, listing on the forthcoming website,
free brochure/catalogue entry, flyers, banners etc. In addition the events are being publicised by the venues themselves via extensive printed material (magazines and Brochures) website listings and press officers. (The Forestry commission and Bristol City Council)
Previous events include
‘Once a tree’ Westonbirt, The National Arboretum 2008
‘Vessel’ Westonbirt, The National Arboretum 2009
‘Inspired’ The Hayloft Gallery, Ashton Court Estate 2010
To be considered please contact me at the earliest opportunity prior to March 1st 2011. If you have any questions please feel free to call.
M: 0781 6680 659 T: 0117 969 7217 E: sue.darlison@btinternet.com
