‘Crafts in the Tower’ is an exhibition by artists, designers and crafts people from in and around Portsmouth. It takes place in the Square Tower, a 15th century naval fort on the seafront in Old Portsmouth .  The aim is to promote high quality individual designer makers and artists who are appealing to a contemporary market and the quality and prices of products are reflective of this.

Several new exhibitors will be taking part in the event including, Jane Athron and her fascinatingly surreal paintings. Collage artist Lorna Apps-Woodland, who will exhibit some arresting pictures made from a wide range of materials and sources. Printmaker Pam Lake, who makes screen prints and lino prints in vivid colours.  She will also join regular printmaker Sue Meredith, who specialises in scenes of Portsmouth’s streets and historic sites.  Kelly Hickman is similarly inspired by her surroundings to create gilded images of Portsmouth’s famous naval vessels.

They will join regular favourites Katherine Webber with her contemporary jewellery and Gary Renouf with his beautiful and intricate designs in wood.  Photographer Jan Fowler will also be in attendance and there will be a welcome return for glass maker Cherie Lubbock, who has been busy extending her techniques at West Dean College.

Ceramics will be represented by Bernice Hughes with her delightful illuminated cottages and castles and Maggie Ambler who has some new designs in painted tiles.

The upcoming exhibition is being held on April 19th from 11am until 4pm and admission will be free. The vintage tea room will be open all day, selling home made cakes, savouries and drinks and it will surely be a pleasurable and artistic day.

To find out more about the event see the ‘Crafts in the Tower’ website.