16 Applications Already for the Hitchin Alternative Art Market — Before the Official Open Call

I’m honestly a bit blown away to be writing this, but the Hitchin Alternative Art Market has already received 16 applications so far, and the official open call hasn’t even gone out yet.

What makes it feel even more surreal is that this all started with an idea I only had 5 days ago.

As a local artist myself, I’ve often found it frustrating how hard it can be to find nearby markets that really feel like the right fit for alternative artists and makers. There are lots of lovely craft fairs and general handmade events, but not many local spaces that truly celebrate darker, quirkier, spookier, more magical or unconventional work.

I know I can’t be the only one who has felt that.

After thinking about it for a while, I got to the point where I thought… instead of moaning that these kinds of events don’t exist locally, why not try to create one?

That’s really where the idea for the Hitchin Alternative Art Market came from.

My hope is to build something that brings together artists and makers with their own distinctive voice and style — whether that’s gothic art, dark illustration, unusual handmade pieces, alternative home décor, curious jewellery, spooky creations, or other original work that sits a little outside the usual.

So to already have 16 applications at this stage feels incredibly encouraging. More than anything, it feels like proof that this is something people have been wanting too.

It’s still early days, but I’m feeling really excited about what this could grow into.

If you’re an artist or maker and feel like your work might be a good fit, or if you’d simply like to follow along and see how it develops, you can find more details here:
https://squorn-artist.com/hitchin-alternative-art-market

And to everyone who has already applied, shared the idea, or sent kind messages about it — thank you. It genuinely means a lot.