Entrance on Francis Street
Good signage shows what's on offer within
Open market - open art - artists workshops and galleries are on the floor above the market.
Some were selling their work but also running craft and art workshop/activities.
On the downside, most were closed and opening hours not advertised.
The arty/quirky vibe extended outside the market to the entrance as well
The legend that is Nick Wates enjoying the walkabout. Nick was one of our co-facilitators on the day.
An old criticism of the market was its invisibility from the high street - no longer.
Participants liked that it wasn't simply about shopping but also relaxing with friends - ping pong!
Judith and Trevor from Pacta Now have taken their online Eastern European wine and deli concept into the market so they can meet their customers face to face. The hours 9-5 and lack of a licence are problematic though.
People could try out a business idea on a stall before upgrading to a shop - underneath the arches, we dreamed our dreams away!
From the community room which was our base for the day, we had a wonderful view across the Open Market stalls, shops and artists workshops/studios. Participants went out in groups of 3-4 to find out to speak to stall-holders, see what they liked and what they might bring home (including £40 bottles of wine!).
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