In a world driven by mass production, there’s something special about curating a collection of one-of-a-kind, handmade goods. And what better way to celebrate the craftsmanship that comes along with the ‘handmade’ tag than through the Handmade Contemporary Fair (HMC), showcasing an array of work by African artisans.
With an ode to luxury, this fair will showcase the finest handmade creations from across the continent. Here’s everything you need to know:
What is the Handmade Contemporary Fair?
HMC is a platform for talented artisans to showcase their work and connect to a luxury audience.
Going for its 17th round, the fair provides artisans an opportunity to showcase their work to consumers, to tell their brand story and to connect with like-minded peers for collaboration.
This year, the fair will showcase the talents of over 100 artisans from across the African continent, representing a diverse range of mediums and disciplines. These artisans are selected from across SA and the rest of the continent based on their passion for artistry and craftsmanship as part of their brand story.
Where handmade African luxury meets the future
A handcrafted piece of work tells a story, bearing the indelible mark of its creator’s dedication and artistry.
Whether it’s the texture of hand-spun fibers, the imperfections that bestow character upon ceramics, or the unique brushstrokes on a canvas, handmade goods stand as a testament to the profound connection between human creativity and the tangible world.
This edition of the fair holds a vision to advocate the importance of protecting and preserving the handmade industry. In the advanced world of AI, the fair aims to educate consumers that AI technology can aid, expand and amplify the community of handcrafted goods.
In Women’s Month, HMC is an event worth getting behind, being a 100% black-owned, female-run business.
Who you can expect to meet at the Handmade Contemporary Fair
Helon Melon: Fashion brand, www.helonmelon.co.za
Nahla Sleepwear: Fashion brand, www.nahlasleepwear.co.za
Wakanda Food Incubator: Food entrepreneur Miles Kubheka, www.wakanda.org.za
La Cucina di Ciro: Mediterranean restaurant, www.lacucinadiciro.co.za
Ethical Eats: Manufacturing company specialising in chocolate and vanilla products, www.ethicaleats.co.za
Belletogs: Fashion brand, www.belletogs.com
One of Each: Fashion brand, www.oneofeach.co.za
Sari For Change: Sustainable fashion brand, www.sariforchange.co.za
Woodstock Laundry: Fashion brand, www.woodstocklaundry.co.uk
Where and when?
The HMC Fair will run from Friday 1st September to Sunday 3rd September 2023 at Melrose Arch.
Day 1: Friday 1st September, 11h30 – 21h00.
Day 2: Saturday 2nd September, 10h00 – 22h00
Day 3: Sunday 3rd September, 10h00 – 17h00
Ticket prices:
- EARLY BIRD special from 15 July – 05 August. You can enjoy a Day Passes at just R100 and Weekend Passes for R180.
- From 06 – 30 August, standard pricing applies: R120 for a Day Pass, R200 for a Weekend Pass.
- At the Door: R130 per day
- Partner Discount: R90 per day ticket.
Tickets available here.
To stay updated with the latest news about the fair and to discover the talented makers showcasing their creations, connect with them on Instagram at @hmc_Fair and join the conversation using #hmc2023.
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Featured Image: Supplied
