With the help of the Kamloops Downtown Business Association, the Kamloops Artisan Market provides a much-needed venue for local artists and designers to show and sell their wares in Downtown Kamloops. The Market creates a veritable outdoor sidewalk gallery showing a wide range of functional and collectible art and design items. Artists personally display and sell only their own original creations. Added to the benefit of purchasing a well well crafted, one also has the opportunity to talk to the artist about how their piece was made.      

Artisan Markets are growing in popularity all across British Columbia, and no wonder... the benefits of local markets are numerous. Buying local craft is not only great for local producers, it also supports our economy. This, in turn, benefits other local businesses and allows our province’s cities and towns to thrive.
Buying local craft also creates jobs and supports entrepreneurs, which supports a stronger community and local economy.  Simply put, buying locally does much more than support one craftsperson whose product you’ve taken home; it has a significant ripple effect in a very positive way.

People are beginning to see the value as the craft world has experienced an infusion of new shoppers. They are drawn to the stylish, novel, abstract and even quirky.
Aesthetics also has a role to play, now that craft has become more cosmopolitan and fashionable.  Craft Nouveau, has become a global trend for high-end, one-of-a-kind fine art and modern craft.

Whatever the reasons for buying local craft, there’s no doubt about the enjoyment and value it brings to our lives!

The Inaugural Opening Celebration of the Kamloops Artisan Market is being held this year in conjunction with the Kamloops Downtown Business Association Spring Festival.  There will be lots to celebrate this year with fun displays and activities for the whole family.