Home to Manchester’s finest contemporary artisans and local makers, the Manchester Craft and Design Centre in the Northern Quarter is (usually) the perfect place to go to meet and engage with local artists and find some truly distinctive pieces of work. Even though the centre itself is unfortunately closed at the moment due to the lockdown, you can still support the creators who work there by checking out their work online. We’ve picked out a few of the best, so take a look below and have a browse of some local handmade products from the comfort of your own home.

Kaper

Kaper, run by designer and crafter Kate Kelly, is a small business selling paper sculptures inspired by woodland and tropical wildlife. Each sculpture is handmade with care so is completely unique – they make perfect gifts, particularly to brighten up anyone’s home.

Lee Page Hanson Ceramics

For some truly beautiful (but still functional) handmade ceramics, check out Lee Page Hanson’s work. With hand textured and painted pieces of work including bowls, tiles and vases available on their Etsy right now, there’s never been a better time to support a highly popular and successful local artist – and snag yourself some beautiful and timeless ceramics in the process.

Colette Hazelwood Jewellery

Colette Hazelwood is a contemporary jewellery maker, creating stunning pieces (largely in silver) that defy conventional accessory expectations. She also takes commissions, creating handmade pieces completely unique to the customer – check out her website to explore her beautiful pieces.

northern scapes

Jessica Owen is a local multimedia artist who sells her evocative and sensitive handpainted landscapes under the name northern scapes. With prints and originals available on her website, if you can’t wait for the day you get back to the great outdoors, bring a little of that beauty into your home with one of her pieces.

Jane Blease

If you’re after something bespoke for your home, look no further than Jane Blease’s work. She designs and makes wood veneer lighting, artwork and accessories embellished with intricate embroidery – there are some beautiful and distinctive lampshades currently available on her website.

Words:
Amy Callaghan
Published on:
Fri 5 Jun 2020