Designernes eget Julemarked – DogA

This weekend I participated in the Design Fair at DogA (Norwegian Center for Design and Architecture) It is one of Oslo most anticipated annual christmas markets. Around 10,000 people attend this event annually, queuing up outside in all sorts of weather to be able to get their hands on some of the latest in Norwegian Design. I am genuinely pleased with my weekend, and learned so much in the process. Prior to attending the event, I gave myself a goal for sales and I must admit, I exceeded my expectations. I went through 750 business cards, and realize that next time I need to bring more! The chance to get ones work seen by so many in such a short period of time is a fantastic opportunity. But most of all I met some lovely people in the process, both in the way of designers who were selling their work, as well as customers who left with smiles on their faces. One young lady in particular stands out in my mind… she returned three times over the span of two days, and said she simply could not stop thinking about one of my pieces. She convinced her mother to buy it for her as a christmas present, saying that the quote inscribed touched her heart. As a designer, there is nothing that makes me happier than knowing that something I have envisioned and created with my own two hands can touch someone in such a way. I am already looking forward to next year.

MinDesign at DogA

“making” with my kids

This weekend is the big design fair here in Oslo, and I am nowhere near as prepared as I should be… swine flu hit our house in a bad way, and I have either been ill myself or nursing sick children all month (the last one heads back to school on Monday). Such is life and family comes first. Having the children home, and their watching me make and make and make etc.. They have been asking for something for themselves of course!  So we took a little time off and made santa hats for each of them.  (post continues after the photo)

handfelted merino wool felt with rabbit fur "nisselue" 50cm tall

Once the show is over on Sunday, I am looking forward to taking some time and making purely for giving. It is such a great feeling. I am really hoping the children will enjoy it.

Well.. back to work..
Cyn

Epla.no – Norway’s new Etsy

Epla.no – was launched 2 weeks ago, and it looks like it will take off as the place to buy and sell handmade items from artists and designers all over Norway. I opened my store yesterday, and am thrilled that I have been featured on the front page already!

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Epla.no – front page featuring my “de Beauvoir” pendant

Epla is much needed in the norwegian handmade market. At a time when buying handmade is more appreciated than ever (read my post on buying handmade), Epla really has found its niche, the question now solely lies on whether or not they can reach the public at large. Only time will tell, and I will do my best to spread the word.

The Norwegian market is a unique one. The cost of living in Norway – compared to North America or many other European countries is drastically higher. Trust me, coming from life on the other side of the pond, it was a huge awakening. Do not get me wrong, the quality of life in Norway far far outweighs the costs! But when it comes to making a living (or at least a profit ) on your art, many struggle, and competing with other artists worldwide is almost impossible. Everything including the cost of raw materials (even when you import them yourself at wholesale prices), tools/equipment and what one needs to charge labour-wise on an hourly basis adds to much higher pricing.

Many norwegian artisans/designers have tried Etsy to some level of success, but many have resorted to lowering their prices to compete for their share of the market. It is a losing proposition for norwegian artisans, and until now, the norwegian market was difficult to reach for the typical artist who lives rurally. Participating in fairs and markets in the larger cities is a costly and time consuming business (shameless plug – hehe: meet me at DogA’s design market this weekend). Hopefully Epla.no will fill the void, allowing us to create and sell from the comfort of our studios while having the marketing done on a larger scale. The key here will be to see how Epla develops, adding features and allowing those who wish to grow with them to benefit from the broader market that Epla is able to reach… and of course it is up to each and every one of us who has decided to open an Epla shop to keep the standards high. Providing quality products and good service – not to mention ‘eye candy’ to keep the customers coming.

Check my shop next week, after the Design show at DogA, I will have some time to fill my shelves… stay tuned.