Delamore Arts 2026: Maker Takeover Experience

Recently, I was lucky enough to take part in Delamore Arts 2026 as part of the Maker Takeovers, alongside the British Contemporary Printmakers exhibition run by Artizan Gallery. It felt like a real “pinch me” moment as a Cornwall based printmaker.

In the week leading up to the event, I felt nervous, as this marked the next big step for me. As a printmaker, I still feel like I’m finding my place, so being part of something like this was both exciting and a little overwhelming. For me, the experience was like going from running a 5K to a marathon, though I’ve never actually run a marathon! I definitely feel that I learnt a tremendous amount as an artist over the weekend.

My Maker Takeover pitch took place during the “en plein air” weekend. It was inspiring to see artists working outdoors, painting the surrounding landscape.

The weekend itself was lovely. I spent both Saturday and Sunday in the stable block, talking to visitors and sharing my work. It’s a beautiful setting, with a warm, creative atmosphere. Although I’m very much an introvert, I really enjoyed speaking with people who shared similar interests and were on the same wavelength. I also had some very helpful conversations with fellow artists, who were kind enough to share the knowledge they’ve gained over the years. As artists, I feel we should share both creative and business experiences, even when we work in the same medium.

Being in the stables felt strangely familiar. Before printmaking, I spent years around horses and competed in showjumping when I was younger, so in a way, it felt like returning to something I knew, just in a different form.

By the end of the weekend, I felt more at ease. The nerves were still there, but quieter. Mostly, I felt grateful to have had the opportunity to take part in such a wonderful event.

You can visit Delamore Arts 2026 near Ivybridge in Devon throughout May, from 10:30am to 4:30pm. It’s a great opportunity to discover a range of phenomenal local artists.

A selection of my prints will also be available to view in the browsers as part of the Contemporary British Printmakers exhibition.