Artisans North finds new venue at Thurso's Masonic Lodge

A group of Caithness creatives has found a regular venue for its craft fairs and welcomes the public to come along to the Masonic Lodge on Olrig Street for its next event on August 5.

Elaine Rapson-Grant noted that though many shops in the county were shutting down, craft fairs were burgeoning throughout the area and going from strength to strength.

The latest in this round-up is Artisans North – featuring different artisans every month including artists, crafters and confectioners – which Elaine recently set up and is already proving to be "very popular".

Elaine said: "On a very blustery day at John O’Groats car rally this June, Artisans North made its first appearance. However, we have now settled on a regular venue at the Masonic Lodge, 28 Olrig Street, Thurso.

"Although some may think the location is controversial, it should be remembered that it is one of Thurso’s most historic listed buildings and a great location for craft fairs since it’s so central in Thurso."

Elaine went on to say that when you take the time to study the building it is "extremely beautiful" with its ornate stained glass windows and wonderful stonework. She adds: “It was designed in a Baronial style with good castellated and carved stonework by the local architect, David Smith. The front of the hall, facing towards Olrig Street, is built of bluestone from the nearby Scrabster quarry, and freestone from Burghead in Morayshire."

Artisans North has been "extremely fortunate" in securing this venue for its craft fairs and shows which will be held on the first Saturday of each and every month.

“Artisans North also likes to feature those taking part each month. I love to find out about the artisans taking part, their history, connection with Caithness and why they started their craft.” Elaine is finding the write-ups very popular on social media and if anyone wants more info they should go to the Artisans North page on Facebook.

The group is now all booked up with artisans taking part until the end of the year. However, anyone interested in joining should get in touch via Facebook.

The 11 artisans taking part in their next craft fair and show are: Rapson Art, Caithness Collectables, FudgePops, Vi’s Crafts and Magical Crystals, Cramond Glass, The Fairy Gothmother, Karen’s Krafts, Jacobite Boutique, Tie-Dye Emporium, KnitsNBits, as well as Heathfield Wood Crafts on the hard stand outside.

Artisans North extends a warm welcome to everyone to come along on Saturday, August 5 between 11 to 3pm when its crafters, artists and confectioners will be waiting to see you at the Masonic Lodge in Thurso. Elaine adds: “Our new banners will be out and our colourful bunting shall be adorning the lodge railings. So, let’s all enjoy our day out."

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