Fast forward for creativity at MADE in East Lothian
Teaching craft skills and supporting the county’s creatives are top of the to-do list for MADE in East Lothian in Autumn 2022.
The creative social enterprise, based in Haddington, has gathered the opinions and ideas of participants of Creative Connections, MADE’s six-month programme of free events promoting make, create, and reuse.
The programme, which has aimed to ignite people’s creativity, culminates in the Fast Forward Open Day on Saturday 13 August 2022. Activities at the MADE Arts Hub on Haddington’s Hardgate include two free bookable workshops, Knitting with T-Shirts and Help Create a Handmade Album.
Fiona Lambert, Founding Director of MADE in East Lothian, said today,
“During Creative Connections, we have spoken to hundreds of participants and visitors about the future development of the Arts Hub as a multi-use space for creativity. A few things are clear. There is overwhelming local support for an arts hub, run by and for the community, where anyone who wants to make and create can find a space to come together, to work and share. Also, the community of artists and makers who make their living from making and selling need support in a fast-moving commercial landscape. And finally, MADE in East Lothian is seen as a trusted innovator within East Lothian’s creative community. Our record of creating opportunities to sell art and craft in our gallery and at monthly markets, and to host and promote creative skills workshops continuously since 2016, is widely recognised and valued.”
MADE’s latest programme of affordable workshops was launched earlier this month and focuses on repair and mending skills. New workshops include Meditative Stitching, Wet Felting, Japanese Mending and Upcycling with Decoupage. Marketing for Creative Business continues each month.
As well as delivering projects like Creative Connections, MADE in East Lothian’s plan to purchase the Hardgate site and develop a new community arts hub continues. Funds awarded by the Architectural Heritage Fund have enabled a full survey and valuation of the site.
“This is a long-term project for MADE.” continued Fiona. “We’re applying for further funding to take the next steps. Slowly, a wonderful facility for sustainability and culture gets a little closer.”
MADE in East Lothian is a Community Interest Company (CIC) which means that all profits are reinvested to benefit the community. Creative Connections is possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.
For more details on Fast Forward Open Day (Saturday 13 August, 11am – 4pm) and to book workshops, visit MADE in East Lothian website www.madeineastlothian.org.
T: 07597 588 242
ENDS
Further information from:
Fiona Lambert
T: 07597 588 242
E: madeineastlothian@gmail.com
