The inaugural Sunday Artisan Markets that kicked off earlier this year has been a “learning process” organizers say.
The weekly market hosted by the Arts & Culture Foundation of Cochrane (ACFC) in Historic Downtown has faced a number of challenges since starting up in June.
“The weather has been the biggest challenge for us in that location,” said Romy Jansen, the foundation’s treasurer.
But it is not the rain from the thunderstorm watches that Cochrane has been under every other day that is affecting the market – it is the wind.
“We are trying to brainstorm solutions but in the meantime we invite everyone to come and check us out – it is important for us to have community support,” Jansen said.
The market began as an alternative to the Saturday Farmers’ Markets, not to run as competition but to offer artisans an additional outlet to sell their wares while also promoting tourism and revitalizing downtown.
Organizers welcome everyone while offering family friendly activities every Sunday including face painting and various art projects.
One of the completed projects – with plans to be shown at future art shows – is two 2x4 rock murals – each rock was painted by a child who attended the market.
“Thanks to our grant from the town we were able to purchase art supplies to start the project and we have also had donations from various businesses, it is all highly appreciated,” Jansen said.
“It has been an experience and there is real camaraderie among the artisans, it has been beautiful to see that.”
The Artisans’ Market will continue to run throughout the summer, every Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. until the first weekend in October.
There will be a stage available for performing artists and the space will be able to accommodate approximately 12 artisans per market.
Artisans wanting to participate in the market must be a member of the Arts & Cultural Foundation of Cochrane, a $25 membership fee for the year, and $15 table rental fee per market.
There will be no admission for those wanting to attend.
For more information email [email protected].
