Fenland Artists/Makers
Having recently spent time talking to people about how they came to Wisbech and what they see for its future, I am encouraged by the positive attitude and the community spirit. I’ve also noticed just how often those who do not live here, and only read the negative press, are surprised by how many interesting things they find to see and do when they visit!
Many of us are determined to change the negative perception so they do not need to be surprised, they come ready to enjoy their visit.
One of these ideas is to bring together the local artists and makers to create a group of people willing to put on exhibitions and markets to showcase their work to everyone, showing what talent we have here, but also bringing people in who will then go on and visit other places and events in the immediate area. We could also attract other artists from the region to join in.
Local artists currently often have to travel to show and sell their work, so creating a local community will benefit them in that regard too. Calling the group Fenland Artists/Makers illustrates the location and inspiration as well as covering all disciplines. The group will have its own website to show members’ details and promote their events and you can apply to join now by going to fenlandartistsmakers.org.uk and clicking the “apply” link.
One such artist is Deborah Davis, a potter and artist. In the photo, she’s using a technique called Sgraffito – “a form of decoration made by scratching through a surface to reveal a lower layer of a contrasting colour”. Highly effective on the beautiful plates and jugs she creates, it was very interesting to see her at work in her studio on North Brink. Follow her on Instagram @debbieonthebrink for more photos of her work.
Anther artist, I’ve mentioned her before, is Carrie Anne Funnell, working with fused glass. A reminder: she’ll be at Wisbech General Cemetery this Saturday (30th March) talking about her work and explaining to us how it’s made. You’ll be able to see examples, including in the Chapel windows. See you there, 2pm-4pm, refreshments will be available.
Next time, I’ll be able to share with you links for Minecraft Wisbech, an online virtual world where you can see the amazing buildings created to represent the different architectures we have across the town. You’ll also be able to build what you want in your own small version of various sections of the map. If you’ve never played Minecraft, don’t worry, I’ll be setting up some opportunities to see it and have a go!