Want to support local artists and makers? Then why not head up Falmouth’s old High Street to Inspire Makers, a shop and gallery showcasing the work of over 60 Cornish based affordable, contemporary design led creatives. Each artist or maker represents a different style or technique within their craft, highlighting the vast diversity of creative expression possible. These artisans are fully promoted with their story so people can understand their journey and value the skill and passion they pour into their craft.

Inspire Makers opened in June 2020 after the owner, Vicki Glaister, moved to Falmouth to pursue a more creative life. During 25 years in high street retail, she had witnessed first-hand the race to the bottom on price, the rise of disposable culture, and the decimation of the high street as we know it.

Some of this was driven by a globalisation of product availability, and the rise of internet shopping fuelling instant gratification – get anything you want, when you want it, and at the cheapest price if you’re prepared to shop around. However, she also recognised a steady upturn in customers seeking uniqueness and provenance, an expectation of ethical supply chains, and for consideration to be given to environmental concerns. All of which Vicki herself found herself searching for too.

As we head towards the gift giving season, considering your purchases carefully and investing in well made, sustainable, and quality gifts means you are giving twice – to the recipient and the local person who produced it.

Vicki said: "It’s wonderful to see the connection customers make with locally made, handcrafted product, either through appreciating the workmanship, as a memento of Cornwall, or the story of the artist. Most purchases will be treasured for a long time.”

And what happened to the creative life? It’s a fine art juggling a creative practice and running a business which supports so many other makers, and it’s a balance still being refined. Vicki occasionally manages to spend time in her studio and is steadily developing her own range of work under Article Studio. Working in precious metal clay, Article Jewellery creates silver pieces combining geometric shapes and organic textures for everyday wear, and Article Glass specialises in homeware made from fused glass.

Want to make something yourself? Inspire Makers also hosts jewellery workshops throughout the year. Head to the website inspiremakers.com for more details.

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