Renowned Craft Fair to Showcase Work of Over 100 Independent Makers in First Newcastle Event
A brand new event showcasing the incredible work of hundreds of independent craftspeople is set to take place in the heart of Newcastle in June.
The Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair Newcastle will bring over 100 designers, makers and artists to Newcastle City Centre for the first time, to display highly skilled, beautifully designed and creatively ambitious pieces to arts & craft enthusiasts and those passionate about supporting small independent makers.
From 20th to 22nd June 2025, Northumbria University’s Sport Central in the heart of the city will be transformed into the site for a three-day celebration of luxury, high-end arts and crafts.
The work will include pieces from both established artists to new graduate talent, all selected by a dedicated expert panel for their excellence to showcase the very best of contemporary craft and art.
The weekend-long event will begin on Friday 20th June from 10am to 5pm, followed by a Private View late opening that evening from 6.30pm to 9pm. Private View ticket holders will receive a complimentary glass of wine to enjoy, while having an exclusive chance to do some relaxed browsing and shopping.
The fair will continue on Saturday 21st June from 10am to 5pm, and finish on Sunday 22nd June from 10am to 4pm.
Visitors will be able to browse, interact and buy unique pieces directly from makers, as well as watch engaging demos and even try their hand at a new craft.
Exhibitors include a range of makers from across the country, as well as some of the most innovative and exciting North East artisans. Designer-maker Nick James will be showcasing his distinctive high-quality furniture, crafted at his Newcastle studio using sustainable locally sourced wood.
Newcastle-based jewellery maker chär-kōl will be exhibiting their signature sustainable pieces, created from ethically sourced bone and recycled precious/semi precious metals, taking inspiration from ancient Northumberland landscapes.
Gateshead maker Senyü, which works with Naga craftspeople and artisans in Northeast India to protect the endangered handloom weaving skills of the region, ensure a shorter supply chain and champion ethical trade, will be exhibiting contemporary designs made using heritage handwoven textiles.
The fair marks the first of its kind in Newcastle, and follows a collaborative mini pilot in 2018 between Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair and The Biscuit Factory.
Ann-Marie Franey, Fair Director, commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to bring the Great Northern Contemporary Craft & Art Fair to Newcastle for the very first time this June.
“Featuring 100 specially selected makers and artists, the fair promises an inspiring showcase of exceptional, high-quality contemporary craft and art. Having studied and lived in Newcastle for ten years - and still a frequent visitor - I have a deep affection for the city, so launching our new fair here is a real privilege and joy.”
“Newcastle has such a strong sense of identity and creativity — it feels like the perfect place to grow our vision. This fair isn’t just about showcasing talent; it’s about creating meaningful connections between makers, collectors, and the wider community. We can’t wait to see how it’s embraced here.”
Those who buy tickets before Friday 16th May will be able to get 25% off full price tickets with a special early bird offer. To learn more or buy tickets, go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/great-northern-contemporary-craft-art-fair-sport-central-northumbria-uni-tickets-1321162254869.
