I had a grand old time of it at the ‘Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair Newcastle’ when it made its debut last year and – praise be! – it’s returning to the heart of the city once again this June.

I wasn’t the only one who enjoyed the ‘Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair Newcastle’ last year because it attracted plenty of other punters who managed to cart off all manner of original items. And this June, Northumbria University’s Sport Central will once again be transformed into a vibrant showcase of creativity, and, once again, this long weekend is sure to be a real highlight of the region’s cultural calendar. As the title of the event kinda hints at, the event will be a real celebration of craft and art, and a carefully curated selection of over 100 independent makers and fine artists will be showing everything from sculpture and textiles to jewellery, ceramics, and bespoke furniture. And the event – which last year was positively thrumming with friendly vibes throughout its run – will present attendees with the chance to not only purchase one-of-a-kind items, but also ample opportunities to engage directly with the creators behind the work. Because beyond browsing the stalls, it’s great to have a chance to peek behind the curtain of the creative process. To that end, many exhibitors will be providing live demonstrations, offering us the chance to witness the technical skills and craftsmanship that bring their pieces to life.

And I think it’s important to say that the fair serves as an important platform for northern talent. This year, returning exhibitor PLYable Design, based in Northumberland, will showcase their unique furniture and lighting pieces created in their Blyth studio. Tom Ownsworth, the owner of PLYable Design, emphasized the importance of such an event for the region: "As independent designers and makers based in the north-east, it’s so important we have an exhibition of this calibre on our doorstep, so we can proudly exhibit our creations alongside exciting new artists from further afield.

The collective creative talent on show will be very inspiring for those of us taking part, and for all the visitors we hope to meet. Our audience plays a vital role in maintaining and expanding the breadth and depth of our local studio scene; times are challenging, so their support is very much appreciated.”

Also joining the fair is newcomer and local textile artist Louise Brooke, who will display her range of bespoke velvet banners

. For emerging makers, the fair provides a vital connection to their audience. “As a new maker, it can be challenging to be ‘seen’ amongst all the noise online,” says Brooke. “The fair enables me to showcase my work and it’s wonderful to be able to have real-world conversations with those visiting, who are interested in artist-made products.”

Ann-Marie Franey, Director of GNCCF Newcastle, noted that the fair aims to become a permanent fixture in the north-east

. “Our ambition is to establish the Fair as an annual destination that celebrates the very best in contemporary craft and art,” says Franey. “There is a huge amount of talent in this region, and having a fair of this calibre here gives makers and artists the opportunity to show their work to a wider audience without having to travel to fairs in the South.”

This year’s weekend-long celebration of high-end fine art and crafts will begin with an exclusive Preview on Thursday 18 June from 6pm to 9pm, where attendees can meet the makers and fine artists in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, get early shopping access to the many highly skilled, beautifully designed and creatively ambitious pieces on offer. Oh, and it would be remiss of me if I didn’t mention that the bar will be open if you’d like to enjoy a drink while you browse. Sold! DP

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair Newcastle, Northumbria University’s Sports Central: Preview Thursday 18 June, 6-9pm. The fair will then continue on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 June from 10am-5pm, before finishing on Sunday 21 June from 10am-4pm. A pop-up café will be onsite across the weekend. General admission Friday/Saturday/Sunday £7 (concessions £6). Preview evening ticket £12. Weekend ticket including Preview £20. Weekend ticket excluding Preview £15. Carers/companions and under 16s go free. Craft A Difference Ticket to support GNNCF £30 (includes full weekend access including Preview evening). More details and tickets from: www.greatnorthernevents.co.uk