Welcome to Find a Maker

MAKER OF THE DAY

Nerissa Cargill Thompson

My work explores juxtapositions of structure and colour: the contrast of nature and stone; particularly coastal textures depicting the lichens and limpets that envelop eroded rocks. I blend recycled fabrics using an embellishing machine to build up subtle variations in tone and texture; augmented with embroidery to produce my signature textiles.

I explore environmental issues of climate crisis and waste through my textile wall art and soft furnishings using recycled materials and mixed media sculptures cast in plastic packaging with concrete/papercrete. Through my work, I hope to encourage people consider the world around them, its beauty and their responsibility to protect it.

I have a limited number of wall pieces and sculptures ready to buy as I am open to commissions in particular sizes or colourways as this reduces waste. My bespoke textiles are also available to commission for reuphostery projects. I can upcycle an old favourite or source a piece for you or just supply a panel ready to use.

As sustainability is a key concern, to minimise my waste, I developed a range of miniatures and wearable art using my offcuts also cast in plastic waste and a range of decorative items and wrist warmers also made from recycled clothing.

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The Capital of Craft Podcast with Cathryn Gwynn

Craft Festival Wales Special

I met Cathryn Gwynn at her home studio in Cilgerran, a village near Cardigan in West Wales. 

Her early life in Cardiff led her to a career in writing, editing and finally teaching at Preseli School. She later began an access course in art, leading to a degree in Textiles from Carmarthen School of Art in 2020.

Text, texture and textile: three words which reflect sher practice as a mixed-media artist. She is drawn to thread, pen, ink and paper and work somewhere on the cusp of these materials.

Cathryn Wynn will be giving an illustrated talk about her work at The Capital of Craft at Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle. 

Her work is part of an exhibition of 8 important Welsh makers at Canfas Gallery in Cardigan. Woven, curated by Suzi Park from Cambrian Wool, runs from September 5-October 5th. 

Craft Festival Wales September 5-7, 2025

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Award Winning Festivals

Since 2003 we have run multi-award winning Festivals in Bovey Tracey, Devon, Cardigan and Cheltenham. In June, we host the UK's best loved and finest contemporary Craft Festival in Bovey Tracey featuring over 200 curated makers. Hosted in idyllic parkland on the edge of Dartmoor. Complimented by an dazzling number of workshops, demonstrations, masterclasses, talks, family activities, street theatre, live music and feasting! In March we head to the beautiful Regency town of Cheltenham, presenting 100 makers at Craft Festival at the Town Hall. In September we will be hosting our first Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle.

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