The Midlands’ largest independent modern makers market is heading to Melton Mowbray for the first time this July, bringing more than 100 creatives, hands-on workshops, live art, street food and DJs to the historic Stockyard.
Taking place on Saturday 25 July, the free-to-attend event marks the latest outing for Midlands Makers, which has built a loyal following across Leicester, Birmingham and Nottingham since launching in 2017.
Founded by East Midlands creative Nikki Millar, Midlands Makers has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors over the years and become renowned for championing the region’s most exciting independent artists, designers and makers. Visitors to the Melton debut can browse an extensive range of handcrafted goods, from jewellery, ceramics and contemporary homeware to vintage clothing, artwork, houseplants and screen-printed fashion.
Among the featured creatives are Leicester artist Constant Bagel Therapy, whose distinctive prints, merchandise and tattoo designs have attracted almost 500,000 followers online, and Staffordshire ceramicist Som’s Clay, known for bold, colourful handmade pieces that have become highly sought-after across the UK.
As well as shopping, visitors can enjoy live painting and portrait sessions, with artists creating bespoke illustrations of people, loved ones and even pets throughout the day.
“We’re really excited to be making our Melton Mowbray debut,” says Millar.
“Our events have been such a hit in Nottingham, Birmingham and Leicester, and we can’t wait to bring Midlands Makers to a town that already has such a strong tradition of celebrating local talent and craftsmanship.
“The Midlands is full of incredible independent businesses doing truly inspiring work. Midlands Makers is all about giving those creatives a platform to thrive, while showing visitors just how much talent exists across the region.”
For the first time in the market’s history, Midlands Makers will also host four interactive workshops, giving visitors the chance to get creative themselves.
Local artist and creative tutor Ellie Lovett, co-founder of Melton’s creative hub Kick Up the Arts, will lead an expressive florals painting workshop suitable for adults and children aged 11 and over. All materials are provided, making it ideal for complete beginners as well as those looking to reconnect with their artistic side.
Elsewhere, Many Hands One Art – an Arts Council England-supported project currently working towards a world record for the largest recycled-material artwork – will invite visitors to contribute to its record attempt. Participants can also create their own sculptures and mixed-media pieces from recycled materials to take home.
Other workshops include a hands-on sgraffito ceramics session, where guests can carve designs into colourful clay tiles, and a collaborative art activity hosted by Daze Made, where participants create their own illustrated “blob face” as part of a large-scale community mural.
“When we launched Midlands Makers, the aim was to create a space where people could discover incredible talent, connect with others and find something truly special to take home,” adds Millar.
“For Melton, we wanted to offer something extra. Whether you’re looking for unique handmade goods, fancy trying a creative workshop, or simply want to browse the stalls with some great street food in hand, there’s something for everyone.”
Midlands Makers takes place on Saturday 25 July, 11am–4pm, at Stockyard, Gate 8, Melton Mowbray Market, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0NP. The event is free, dog-friendly, family-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
For more information, visit midlandsmakers.co.uk.
