Over 100 exhibitors are confirmed to be showcasing and selling their wares at the upcoming Handmade Contemporary Fair (HMC). The market, which prides itself on attracting the continent’s finest creatives, will be taking place at the Hyde Park Corner rooftop from 11 to 13 October 2019.
The HMC, which is marking its tenth anniversary this year, shares a milestone with the host venue, Hyde Park Corner, which turns 50. The three-day market is set to be an impressive display of fashion, homeware, jewellery, beverages, body and bath products, and accessories from across the African continent.
The event is renowned for being a site where shoppers can pick up unique, exquisitely crafted goods that exemplify the growth of the luxury artisanal industry in South Africa and across the African continent. Themed ‘Memories and Dreams’, the 2019 edition of the HMC sees the return of some favourite vendors, as well as exciting new players in the market. The common denominator is the unmatched, X-factor quality that they all present.
As we move into the final quarter of the year, HMC is also a great opportunity for the discerning shopper to stock up early on Festive Season gifts – the sheer range of merchandise on offer ensures that fair-goers are spoilt for choice – there’s literally something for everyone, with the additional benefit that the goods in question are exceptional, memorable and distinctive.
Boasting innovative hand-crafted products that are ‘well made in Africa’, from established and emerging creatives, the HMC is expecting in excess of 14 000 patrons over the three days of the market. For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, the market also allows fair-goers a chance to take a break from the shopping, sip on a craft cocktail or a chilled glass of wine, while enjoying the cuisine on offer, and taking in Johannesburg’s legendary sunsets and views from the rooftop venue.
Where the exhibitors are concerned, jewellery lovers will be delighted with the wares on display. Kenyan-based Adele Dejak makes a return with her trademark bold pieces, and PICHULIK will bring their intentional and ethical jewellery, accessories and womenswear brand. Through distilling sacred storytelling from ancient traditions, myth and an experimental use of materials and form, PICHULIK celebrates empowering feminine narratives that echo from the women who make the brand to the women who wear it. Yellow Jewellery’s distinctive motifs and concepts, made by hand with high quality, ethically sourced materials, will be a stand-out at the fair, as will Katy Valentine’s unique, everyday pieces. And, of course, HMC wouldn’t be complete without Kirsten Goss’ unique approach to jewellery design accompanied by unparalleled craftsmanship.
The craft gin and fine wine sections will be populated with the likes of Autograph Distillery, Jorgensen’s Distillery, Steenberg Vineyards, Painted Wolf Wines, Hermanuspietersfontein, Louisvale Wines, Thelema Mountain Vineyards, Beau Constantia, Vrede en Lust, and Silvermist Vineyards.
On the fashion side, MaXhosa, Missibaba, Mami Wata, Mille Collines, and Matsidiso Shoes will all have a presence. Ordinary Style’s individually cut men’s shirts, Sir Anthony’s bespoke denim brand, sammy’s unique contemporary treasures, Butter Pudding’s clothing for kiddies and adults, Ledikana’s contemporary African garments, hats and fashion accessories, Bella Ciao’s one-of-a-kind pieces, Granadilla’s swimwear, Temple of Reason’s men’s print apparel brand, Kokomo’s natural, breathable fabrics, Hannah Lavery’s elevated basics, Mantua’s silk scarves and Mood Studios’ sleepwear line will have you stocking up your wardrobe with sublime handmade pieces. For handcrafted leather wear, this year’s must-visit stands include Stonecamp Leather and Verse. For handbags, shoes and accessories, don’t miss out on Messaynesh Geberesillasie’s Messay Cotton & Leather, Chommies, Galago, Sealand, Helon Melon, Ledikana, AAKS, and Khokho.
Beyond that, a dizzying selection of lifestyle products will all be available for sale, including homeware décor such as candles and ceramics, bath and body products. Ceramic Factory, Victoria Verbaan, Emerging Creatives, The Artisan, Ashanti Shades, Man and Wife, A LoveSupreme, Something Good Studio, Design Afrika, Threads That Bind Us, Tsandza Weaving, Indigi, and Diaro Design & Décor will all have beautiful homeware products on sale to add a touch of handmade to your home.
From sweet to savoury, there will be delicious treats to suit any palate. Delightful treats include handmade Belgian chocolates from Chocoloza, Lollipop League’s beautifully handcrafted lollipos and 1701 Nougat’s hand-cut and wrapped honey nougat. On the savoury side, look out for Rio Largo Estate’s award-winning extra virgin olive oil, Franco Esposito’s specialities, Paul Harper Oysters, Lardiere Fine Foods, Soul Slovaki, and Richard Bosman’s range of cured meats and charcuterie platters.
Tickets for the fair are currently available online at Webtickets, in Pick n Pay retailers and will also be sold onsite at Hyde Park Corner during the fair. Weekend passes retail at R360, while day passes are priced at R180.
The HMC operating hours are as follows:
Friday, 11 October: 12:00 – 22:00
Saturday, 12 October: 10:00 – 21:00
Sunday, 13 October: 10:00 – 16:00
Venue: Hyde Park Corner rooftop – corner Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, Hyde Park, Johannesburg.
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