Summer Craft Fair, Salem Chapel, East Budleigh Devon.

by Marian Andrews
(East Devon)

This beautiful little Chapel, worth a visit “just for itself” is the perfect setting for our Summer Craft Fair. The beginning of July seemed a good time to enjoy some sunshine and a light evening or two so on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th July 2010 we open the doors at 10am until 5pm and invite you to enjoy an impressive array of individual crafts.

There is the unusual, such as:-

PRESSED SEAWEED floated and pressed in the manner of Amelia Griffiths, the Algologist who collected and preserved Seaweed. One of the first women to be recognized for her contributions to science she was made a full member of the Torquay Natural History Society in 1845 (known today as Torquay Museum), where her beautiful bound albums of Seaweeds and Algaes are held.

SHELLS, not so unusual since we are near the sea but used in a similar manner to those Victorian Ladies of Leisure who encrusted all types of objects with them.

FEATHERS, mainly Guinea Fowl.

MACHINE and HAND EMBROIDERY worked onto fabric or canvas with a wide range of media such as felt, organza, metal, paint, paper and dye to create designs inspired by Islamic, Egyptian and Indian textiles and architecture, besides the land and seascapes around us.

POTTERY an elemental art form which still retains the magic of its’ alchemy. The practical and the ornamental both emerge from a basic medium.

STAINED GLASS panels made using traditional techniques, decorative mobiles, sun-catchers and an opportunity to discuss commissions for hand-made stained glass windows or repairs.

WOODTURNING an ancient art put into practice in the most artistic fashion to create everyday items such as peppermills and boxes to hollow form bowls which are turned to reveal exquisite patterns of wood grain.

ART and DESIGN a selection of cards, artwork and accessories influenced by Manga. The Japanese word Manga; literally translated, means “whimsical pictures”.

JEWELLERY, happy looking, brightly coloured beads, tastefully strung into necklaces, bracelets and earrings, then in complete contrast, a stylish and elegant selection of necklaces cleverly made from diamonte belt buckles or paste jewellery with a 30’s and 40’s “look”.

Teas, cake and soft drinks will be served in the Schoolroom and as an extra incentive to persuade visitors to travel by bus we will be pleased to reward their journey with free tea and cake if they present the appropriate bus ticket.

The Salem Chapel is situated on the periphery of East Budleigh so parking is restricted, however there are parking facilities in Hayes Lane near the Church just a short walk away.

By bus-the Stagecoach 157 operates between Exmouth and Sidmouth and stops at Middleton Lane very close to the Chapel. Stagecoach Traveline - 0871 200 2233.