Art and Craft Festival 9-11.12.2011

Christmas shopping atmosphere

Romantically lit and adorned handicraft stalls, unique Christmas tree ornaments, hangers with hand-sewn clothes and accessories, original jewelry, stalls filled with pictures and graphics - this was the image of halls 7 and 7A during the 8th edition of the Art and Craft Festival. Over 300 craftsmen and artists were selling their works. Neighbouring halls hosted Cavaliada - the largest equestrian event in Poland. The two events perfectly complemented each other - they took place at the same time and in the same space of the exhibition complex. Their joint attractiveness drew to Międzynarodowe Targi Poznańskie as many as 25 thousand visitors.

During the Art and Craft Festival - annual festival of artistic craftsmanship, we could admire the works of talented and extraordinary artists from all over Poland. The eighth edition of the event abounded in unique, hand-made products. The diversity of exhibitors' offer was staggering. Everyone interested in interior design could find something for themselves there: from the stained glass to lamps, mirrors, mosaics, art glass and ceramics, lace tablecloths and napkins, and plenty of unique gadgets. The festival was also a paradise for those looking for variety and distinction in dress and accessories. The visitors were mesmerized by the variety of original jewelry, sophisticated dresses, handbags, scarves, belts and headgear, made not only of unusual materials, but also in amazing cuts and shapes. Children and their parents could find there gifts that are difficult to buy in a shop: straw toys, wooden cars and blocks, hand-made puppets, patchwork teddy bears and kittens, painted pillows.

Artists' and handicrafter's competition

A novelty introduced this year were two competitions for artists and craftsmen. The competitions began before the festival within specially prepared competition applications at Facebook website of the Art and Craft Festival.

The first competition - Go ART - was open for every artist. 650 works were submitted for the contest. Facebook fans casted a total of over 10.5 thousand votes. The authors of the winning works were: Ludmiła Malicka, Agnieszka Skóra and Robert Romanowicz. All of them were awarded with a free stand at the 2011 Festival.

The second contest TRENDY ART was aimed at the exhibitors. They sent 168 photographs of their works, such as: hand-made jewelry, paintings, bags and accessories, unique clothing, interior decorations and Christmas ornaments. 20 works that received the biggest number of votes were displayed for view during the festival on a specially prepared exhibition.

Workshops and shows

Once again the Festival inspired many people to create something on their own. Workshops and shows organized by the exhibitors were extremely popular. They offered a unique possibility of learning the secrets of decorating techniques, felting, jewelry making and creating exquisite Christmas decorations. Numerous stands sold a wide range of materials and tools for amateur creators.

Alternative taste

Each year the festival is accompanied by traditional food fair boasting regional delicacies and traditional Polish food. Delicacies not usually found in supermarkets or local shops were very popular among the fair visitors.

We already invite you to the 9th Art and Craft Festival that will be held on 7th-9th December 2012, together with Cavaliada.