CUMBRIAN art and crafts are in the spotlight this weekend in one of the must-see creative gatherings of the festive season.

Once again the prestigious Craft Market Kendal returns to the Brewery Arts Centre, and organiser and artist Jan Huntley Peace emphasises that the three-day event is much more than an art and craft fair.

"We work hard to provide something special," explains Jan. "And especially this year with over half of our 36 exhibitors being new to the event. We are so excited at being able to bring new and exciting artists and craftspeople to Kendal especially for the festive season. Exhibitors are selected for their high levels of expertise in a particular medium. While we welcome back regulars such as Rebecca Callis, Gwen Bainbridge and James Hake its fantastic to introduce ceramicists Sarah Villeneau and Mile-Moore Ceramics for the first time as well as the unique David Wilson from the Light Engineering Company with amazing lighting and clock projects."

Jan, who produces beautiful jewellery and delicate porcelain inspired by vintage lace and birds, has worked with Zandra Rhodes, David and Elizabeth Emmanual and Norman Hartnell, and is no stranger to local art events.

"I feel strongly about the strength of art and craft in Cumbria and feel privileged to be able to bring so many talented professionals, and especially so many for the first time, together at a single event, providing unique, beautiful and designer-made for gifts especially in the run up to Christmas," adds Jan. "Meeting and talking with the artists themselves is really special and Craft Market Kendal caters for all tastes and interests."

Among those featured in the seductive showcase of art and craft ware are Morag Macpherson, with her limited edition textiles and art wear, Ellie Chaney, showing papercuts and prints and Kim Tillyer who uses cyano printing to create bespoke paper and textiles design: "To add to the excitement we also have workshops and demonstrations by Judith Fauvret, Priscilla Edwards, Christine Stanford and James Mitchell."

Craft Market Kendal runs from Friday until Sunday, November 23-25 with live music on the Friday evening.

Open Friday, 5.30pm-8.30pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm.