Through Unit X in second year, I met Ann-Marie Franey who along with Angela Mann established the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair. I was fortunate enough to be picked to volunteer at the craft fair and to help set up and bring down the show. It was a great insight in to how these events run, how applicants get chosen and just how valuable networking is.
I undertook a wide range of jobs. Helping exhibitors to set up, taking entrance money, taking card payments, emptying bins, being on hand to answer questions and helping exhibitors to take down work. Although some jobs were more exciting than others, I enjoyed seeing the craft fair from every angle and I was lucky to meet woven textile designers Helen Foot and Theo Wright and talk to them about their experiences at craft fairs such as the GNCCF. Volunteering has opened my eyes to networking events and just how important it is to get yourself known in industry. I have signed up to receive updates and newsletters from the Great Northern with the hope to hear about up and coming exhibitions and other volunteering opportunities, but further customer facing work experience will help to build professional communication.
I received very positive feedback from the volunteers co-ordinator Leanne Richards as shown below, and her constant encouragement and enthusiasm has made me think about entering for the Great Northern Graduates show next year.
