Here's what's happening in our creative space, the Sail Loft, the NaviStitch shop, and on Manningtree High Street over the coming weeks...
Well firstly, thank you to all of you that made it to Manningtree for our incredible little town's Christmas Market. Despite being unlucky with the weather, so many of you turned out and visited all of us ... there really was no let-up all day and we appreciated your support. It was fun for all the family as you can see - a huge thanks to Tazzy Bro Photography for all the pics!
In the Sail Loft...
It's less than a week now until the Big Day. Christmas is just 6 days away, and we're open for 5 of them - see our calendar for opening dates over the next month or so. We like to take a little time for a well-earned break away once all of the festivities are over and our lovely shop is empty of all of these fabulous makers and their superb work - until then, we have the work of around 40 fabulous artists and makers in our Christmas Pop-up and they're taking it in turns each day to help us man the shop and meet you. Follow us on social media to find out who's in the shop each day. We'll be here 10am-5pm each day until Christmas Eve, when we close our doors at 4pm (11am-3pm on Sunday).
In the NaviStitch shop
As well as all of the amazing artists and makers in our building at the moment, we've also got a wealth of our own giftware - we really are a one-stop Christmas gift shop so come and see us when you can. Take a look at our latest delivery of treasure... and there's also our map mugs, our Manningtree-related items and lots, lots more!
I'd also love you to take a look at my own new artwork whilst you're with us: painted on cotton rag paper and float-mounted, each one has a hand stitched boat. There are 3 different sizes, and they also have some metallic paints in them so that they sparkle... and we all love a bit of sparkle at Christmas!
Another quick reminder about NaviStitch Gift Vouchers - they're redeemable against products in the NaviStitch shop - even commissions.
The only thing you can't use them for is Sail Loft exhibitions and pop-up shops (because material belongs to the artist).
Just ask and we'll be all too happy to help.
When you visit, don't forget that for just £2 you could win this incredible farewell gift to Manningtree that was painted by William Huntingdon just two weeks before his wedding day, as he prepared to leave the town for a new adventure in New York. The painting, a tribute to his deep affection for his hometown, has been left behind as a gift for the community, so it may continue to bring joy and benefit to those who call it home, whilst raising money for local youth group My Blue Pass.
Framed by Nick Holyman Framing "Swan Song" is being raffled here at NaviStitch and the lucky winner will be drawn at 3pm on Saturday, 28th December in our shop.
And finally
We know that getting to Manningtree isn't always possible. If you fancy something nautical but extremely nice this Christmas as a special gift (or just for yourself!), you'll find some of my nautical stitched work in both The Alma in Harwich, or in The Lord Nelson in Ipswich...
Thinking ahead...
Looking forward to 2025, the first event in our Sail Loft Gallery is our Pre-loved Art Sale. If you've got art that you no longer have love or space for, here's your opportunity to find a new owner to love it!
Either original art or numbered limited edition prints, you can submit up to 5 pieces into our sale.
For buyers, what a great opportunity to find something rare, something unusual, or a total bargain?!
22nd January-15th February - find out all about it here
If you're an artist or maker, we've now got our calendar open for 2025 bookings. Take a look at details of how to book
Think creatively too - our space is not just for individual exhibitions, consider collaborations - If you're a fledgling artist or maker and want to enter the world of exhibiting, let us know and we can help you with introductions, with display materials and with advice.
Until next time...
If you do make it to Manningtree this festive season, don't forget to look for each of our fabulous Winter Wanderland windows - they're being revealed each day up until Christmas Day ... our creatively brilliant little town's take on an advent calendar.
Until next year, I wish you calm waters and plain sailing. Have the happiest of holidays and the healthiest of new years... next newsletter in 2025!
Sam
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