New directory for artists and creatives in Eastbourne

The Makers Directory has launched with its first hundred listings of creatives, ranging from blacksmiths and milliners to painters and stone carvers.

Eastbourne council has funded the directory as part of a response to the coronavirus outbreak and the impact it has had on small creatives unable to sell their work to the public in usual ways.

The mission of The Makers Directory, say officials, is to encourage people to support, value and buy from local makers and artists.

People can use the website to search for the perfect hand-crafted gift, commission work for their home or get creative and find someone to teach them a new skill.

The directory is easy to use, with a tagging system which enables users to search by discipline, location and service.

David Tutt, leader of Eastbourne council, said, “Businesses large and small have suffered greatly during the pandemic and I’ve been determined throughout to provide as much council help and support to them as possible. This website is a great idea and helps put makers and artists directly in touch with new customers.”

Additional artists and makers are encouraged to be listed for free - as long as they live or work in the Eastbourne borough. If you, or anyone you know is interested, register online at themakersdirectory.co.uk. Be part of The Makers Directory and reach new audiences of buyers, collectors and fellow makers.

The Makers Directory is a not-for-profit endeavour, started by Charlotte Parsons and Corina Buckwell, fired by their passion to connect buyers directly with local makers.