Food, wines, arts and crafts are all part of an eclectic mix that makes up the largest number of craftspeople to open their doors or gates for the Moutere Artisans’ spring open day this Sunday.
On 27 October, 18 artisans in a close radius around Upper Moutere are open to the public, from pottery and jewellery, to wine, cheeses, preserves and spring blooms.
Chairman of the group, Noël Jelsma, says the area tends to attract artisans seeking a quieter space away from the hustle and bustle to work with their craft.
“We have everything from large-scale wine makers through to one-woman basket weavers. They are an eclectic mix of people wanting to be tucked away and follow their passions.”
He says a solid core of artisans have been going steady for a decade or more, while new artisans move into the area to create a mix of old favourites and new crafts for the open day.
“We do seem to be going from strength to strength with new artisan’s joining the group. Eighteen artisans are participating this time which is the highest number I can recall. So, you have to be strategic about how you approach your day and how you spend your time. It’s a great idea to carpool with friends, which can be a lot of fun.”
The group hold an autumn open day as well as one in spring and Noël says the two seasons offer a different landscape of autumn and spring colour for visitors.
This spring, the newest member of the group is Moutere Blooms, which Noël describes as a stunning garden selling blooms and garden accessories. Following the flower theme, the spring open day is well timed for Jo Smith Paeonies, which also distils the essential oils to turn into products such as soaps.
Noël says 100 per cent of the group’s artisans are planning to open on Sunday. A downloadable map and list of artisans can be found here.
