Makers see Collect Open as a major stepping stone in their creative career; however they may not be fully aware of what is involved. Selectors look for significant creative ambition, a step change in direction; a financial commitment and museum quality craftsmanship.
I just wanted to send an email to you to say thank you for your support in the lead up and during the fair. It's been an incredible experience and I have a lot of following up to do (!) but I'm really excited to see where it might possibly lead from here.
Louise Frances Smith, Collect Open 2023 exhibitor
Over the past 5 years, as Head of Craft Business Skills, I have taken steps to mitigate the risks to makers investment through a package of support.
As one of the three judges for the Collect Open Award I designed and hosted a panel talk for Collect Open and VIP Tour guides for the Collect programme. I bring:
Caroline’s practical thoughts and comments really helped me with the run up to Collect Open 23 - thinking of the job an image has to do instead of panicking about what to choose, finding fresh words to describe things instead of getting stuck in clichés, the importance of the first line on a grant application, focusing on how my work could inspire and influence people as well as what I’m actually going to make…She had a knack of helping me see the bigger picture and think more clearly and strategically.
Bridget Bailey, Collect Open exhibitor 2023
Round tables on environmental and financial sustainability research
Facilitaor and author
Crafting Business European Training Programme
Project manager, trainer and coach
Trade with Europe post Brexit
Project manager, advisor and author