On Sunday June 11th from 10.30 till 4pm in the afternoon, a unique event was held in the Verden Gallery of West House in Pinner Memorial Park.
Sixteen artisan designers came together to showcase and sell their work. All had exhibited over the years in the Heath Robinson Museum as part of the prestigious Maker’s Art programme which features outstanding artisans, jewellers, ceramicists, print makers, wood workers, textile weavers and others, all of whom live and work in the locality. It is a feature that makes the Heath Robinson Museum something special.
The stall holders were mainly in the Verden Gallery but two were outside under gazebos. It was a boiling hot day and, as it was an all-day event, there had to be constant rounds of cold water delivered to keep people cool.
Glorious artisan pieces were on display at the various stalls, amongst others, stained glass, dyed fabric pieces, ceramics, turned wood, jewellery ….
There were many comments from the stall holders, and they enjoyed being part of this first “combined showcase” event for the Maker’s Art.
Tejal wrote afterwards: “First of all, I would like to thank Jeannine (Lawder) and Jane (Prentice) for organising such a successful event yesterday. My heartfelt thanks and gratitude. The ambience and place were well organised. Thanks to Ruth and Phil, who were kindly providing refreshments to beat the heat to all of us🙏”
Another, from Denise: “Thank you to everyone for organising such a lovely day and for looking after us so well in the heat which was very much appreciated. It was great to meet so many new traders too.” One of the Friends’ committee wrote: “It felt like a huge success & people I’ve seen today all thought it was fabulous.”
Lots of local people who had seen the advertising, or happened to be in the park, came and visited and many went away carrying a bag with something precious purchased from the stalls. Money raised will support the museum, but, as important, this was a day when local artisans’ work could be appreciated by a wider audience. The role of the Museum as a community art hub was never more strongly demonstrated. Thanks to all who supported us on the day.
