It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

Indeed it is as #HandmadeFestive is here. Now in its ninth year, it’s bigger than ever. Building on the pre-lottery funded refurb reputation of the Macrobert gallery space, a few of us hatched a plan back in 2015 to dedicate our Arthouse over the busy festive season to three Scottish based artists to showcase their work and sell their pieces whilst providing our audiences a chance to purchase a unique gift (or two) during their annual trip to the pantosphere.  

Since then, #HandmadeFestive has taken a variety of forms. We’ve had craft fayre days and weekends running alongside the month-long collection, a pandemic driven online collection in 2020 and last year, a pop-up selection from local upcyclers. The latter is a medium close to my heart and I’m in awe at some of the recycled materials used and upcycling abilities of some of our artists and makers. 

I am in my absolute happy place in our wee stock room like a caffeine fuelled elf curating and displaying the collection with invaluable support from colleagues - from selecting work, liaising with artists and makers, listing all of the pieces on the tills and, of course, selling to visitors and audiences amidst the festive throng. 

2023 is our most ambitious incarnation yet, showcasing 36 Scottish based artists and makers: 13 of whom have had jewellery, cards and prints available for sale at Macrobert throughout the year; 4 are returning from previous years, and we welcome 19 artists and makers to #HandmadeFestive for the first time. 

In my humble opinion the sheer joy of this collection is the range of work on display, hobbyists, emerging artists and professionals exhibiting alongside one another. On display, for immediate take home purchases you will find framed artwork, unframed prints, poetry prints, quirky jewellery, festive decorations, cards and homewares. 

Don’t just leave it ‘til the interval to take a look - come and spend some time in the space and browse the selection on display. There is a gift here for everyone, I’m sure of it. My trouble is selecting which one! 

Elizabeth Fuller

Venue and Projects Manager