Independent design markets heading to Aberdeen this weekend are providing a valuable pipeline for local art school graduates.
Kicking off Tea Green Events’ national programme of winter design markets, almost 60 independent designers will descend on Aberdeen Art Gallery this weekend (Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 November 2024).
The events mark the culmination of the Scottish company’s ten-year anniversary, having held a record 20 markets across some of Scotland’s most stunning creative spaces this year.
Among those selling this weekend are four Gray’s School of Art graduates and 20 local designers, including those whose work is now part of the gallery’s contemporary collections.
Inspired by beaches across north east Scotland, Aberdeen-born designer April Hay of Agate and Ayre creates a luxury collection of textile accessories inspired by her love of bold, abstract prints and Scottish geology.
April, who graduated from Gray’s School of Art in 2016, has also created a bespoke range of products for the gallery shop, based on the gallery’s granite pillars, a collaboration she attributes to Tea Green markets.
April said: “Last year, after exhibiting at Aberdeen Art Gallery’s Tea Green market for three years, I was invited to create a collection for the shop based on the gallery’s stunning granite columns. It was the most fantastic opportunity for me, taking prints from the granite and creating a range of products including prints, neck-warmers and bookmarks, all of which are currently on sale exclusively within the gallery.
“The Aberdeen Tea Green markets are always my busiest as people love to support local makers. I’m exceptionally proud to have my work on sale within the gallery shop too – it feels like I’ve come full circle, having come here for school trips at primary school and now with my own designs for sale in the shop! Had I not been selling at Tea Green, I doubt this amazing collaboration would have happened.”
Ben Durack, Course Leader of Product, Ceramics and Jewellery at Gray’s School of Art, said: “As one of Scotland’s leading art schools, we are not only here to hone students’ creative skills but to prepare them for the world of work. As a result, we actively encourage participation in Tea Green markets and other public-facing events, which can open so many doors. For us, events like Tea Green Events provide a sense of hope and aspiration for our graduates. By showcasing their talents and products in such beautiful venues, students can see the potential for making a living from their craft, right here in Aberdeen. They’re also a great chance to network with other makers, start conversations around their business journey and develop those all-important people skills, explaining what goes into their designs and helping the customer understand their value.”
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson said, “We’re delighted to host Tea Green Markets at Aberdeen Art Gallery, bringing together talented artists and makers from across Scotland to our vibrant city. Over the years, many creators discovered at these events have become part of our collection, a testament to the incredible talent ever emerging from Scotland’s creative communities. These markets are a great opportunity for artists and visitors alike to come together and support local talent. “
Making the finishing touches to the markets this weekend, Tea Green Events founder, Dundee jeweller Joanne MacFadyen, commented: “As someone who’s determined to champion Scotland’s creative talent, it’s a real pleasure to return to Aberdeen and see the growing creative community come together to showcase their talent. Buying local, hand-crafted goods not only supports small businesses but makes environmental sense. They’re made to last, with love and care, so the perfect place to do a spot of Christmas shopping!”
For more information about Tea Green Markets and the programme of events, visit https://www.teagreen.co.uk/
