Here's what's happening in our creative space, the Sail Loft, and the NaviStitch shop on Manningtree High Street over the coming weeks...
In the Sail Loft...
Here with us until Saturday 9th March , we have the Sail Loft's friend and amazing artist Anne Plummer and her exhibition 'Glassy Calm'. Anne is exhibiting her paintings of Marbles (these need to be seen to be believed), alongside becalmed Barges and Boats, a subject matter that she is best known for.
Anne's joining us in the NaviStitch shop tomorrow and Saturday so grab the opportunity to come along in and meet the artist.
After some careful curation to come in the next few days, we're excited that our Spring Exhibition will be opening on 16th March and continue through until 13th April.
We're been delighted by the submissions that we've had in so far - you're in for a huge treat this year!
If you're an artist wanting to apply to be in our Spring Exhibition, you have until Saturday to get your application in - take a look here for more details. We're happy to consider work in any medium (including photography, textile art and 3d work), from professional or amateur artists. We love to support emerging artists so do consider applying.
And, if you fancy meeting some of the artists exhibiting, then add Friday 15th to your diary - it's our preview evening from 5pm-8pm and we'd love to see you.
In the NaviStitch shop...
We have a new range of cards in stock in our NaviStitch shop - aren't the illustrations just beautiful?! They're by Lydia Designs and we think they're perfect for swimmers, Manningtree Mermaids, and anyone who appreciates amazing art!
Call in when you can - we're open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm on Manningtree High Street
In other news...
If you're a gift shop or a seller of greeting cards , I now have a wholesale website just for you.
My many ranges of greeting cards come in multiples of 6 and you have the option of biodegradable cello or without. You'll need to register for an account as it's a retailer-only site
I also have a I have a great digital catalogue ready to send to anyone who may like to become a stockist. Drop me a line and I'll send one over.
Exciting New Development...
🎉 We have some big news to share this week: We're adding a new, bespoke framing service to the NaviStitch shop in conjunction with Nick Holyman Framing.
🖼️ We're just finalising all of the details, but will have a superb selection of frame and mount samples in the shop so that we can work with you to choose the right frame to bring the best out of the piece you would like framed.
We'll be able to offer a much wider range of frame options to go with a NaviStitch commission. If you choose an unframed piece from our Spring Exhibition we can have the perfect frame made to suit the work and your home.
🎨 And of course, if you have anything else that you'd like framed - your own art, textiles or prints, just pop in and we can have a chat.
We are so excited about this that we couldn't wait to share it. We will be announcing our go live date very soon!
And finally...
Don't panic ... you've still got just over a week to go! Next Sunday's Mothers' Day (10th March), and so you've got the rest of this week, and then Tuesday to Saturday next week to nip in and pick up something fabulous for your Mum.
We've got cards for all tastes and gifts galore - from tote bags, to ornaments, art and nautical stitched delights - we're here 10am to 4pm each day - and if you need some help, just ask!
If you're quick, and you can't make it into the NaviStitch shop, take a look online and order a card - and flick through my nautical stitched art too - it makes a great gift!
Keep abreast of everything happening in our Sail Loft, in the NaviStitch Shop, and Manningtree High Street by following us on social media - we've got lots of new and different exhibitions this year, as well as old friends joining us again with new shows. However, we still have a few gaps in our calendar. If you're an artist or maker and are interested in hiring the Sail Loft for an exhibition, workshop or pop-up event, take a look at details of our space and how to book.
Until next time, I wish you calm waters and plain sailing
Sam