Market Makers help Liskeard artists make their mark

A major new initiative to promote the arts and crafts talent of Liskeard launched in November 2021.

The Market Makers project is part of the ongoing regeneration of the Old Cattle Market site in Liskeard’s town centre.

Since the town’s historic cattle market closed in 2017, this site has lain empty, but work is now ongoing to build new business and arts facilities in this prime location. This will include a specially constructed space for local artists and craftspeople – a set of bespoke modular units to accommodate the making of their creative work.

As well as developing this new facility, the Cattle Market Makers team are offering one-to-one business mentoring and support for experienced artists and craftspeople to turn their hobbies into businesses and to take those businesses to the next level of growth.

The team are also now recruiting participants to a range of free training courses in arts and crafts, for beginners who would like to develop new skills and for interim learners who are looking to hone their craft – and are keen to hear from anyone who might be interested.

These are set to include courses in fabric work, print-making, wood carving and watercolours.

The scheme is managed by Liskeard Town Council and supported by European Structural and Investment Funds, Community Led Local Development and Cornwall Council.

The Management Board for the project is chaired by Liskeard councillor Rachel Brooks. ‘This initiative offers fantastic opportunities for the local community – for the town’s artists and for people wanting to develop their interests in arts and crafts,’ said Rachel. ‘Our courses are designed to promote our participants’ wellbeing and confidence, both their prospects in life and their quality of life.’

‘This is a brilliant project that should do a lot for the town and for local people,’ added Liskeard Mayor Simon Cassidy. ‘It’s been devised to build upon and to showcase what our vibrant artistic community does best.’

The project is being managed by author and teacher Alec Charles. ‘There’s so much great artistic talent in Liskeard,’ said Alec. ‘We’re here to help support and promote that talent – and to help Liskeard take its well-deserved place on the region’s arts and crafts map.’