Time is right for the woman who cracked Scottish scene

06 May 2005Written by ATG Reporter

EXPECT around 90 dealers, just a handful down on last year, in Hall 3 of the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre for the sixth Antiques For Everyone – Glasgow fair from May 13 to 15.

Making this Scottish fair not only work, but also rapidly establishing it as, by some measure the top Scottish antiques event, can count among organiser Fran Foster's most noteworthy achievements since she pioneered the successful Antiques For Everyone formula at Birmingham's NEC nearly 20 years ago.

Mrs Foster's Scottish debut in 2000 proved an instant success, which rather bucked a trend since, hitherto, quality, vetted fairs of any size conspicuously failed to make their mark in Scotland.

This one found strong support from both the City of Glasgow and the Scottish trade, who are very well represented this year.

All the exhibitors should be particularly happy this month, since Mrs Foster has finally agreed with the venue to move from a late June slot to mid-May, her chosen time.

The fair was successful enough in June - the season of the Scottish game fairs, which it was thought attracted some well-heeled buyers who might spend money at the antiques fair. However, the dates did make it difficult for some Olympia exhibitors to do both events.

There are few changes to this year's exhibitor list but the fair welcomes Bath porcelain dealer Patricia Markbridge, Dundee sculpture specialists Endymion and London jewellers Anderson Jones.

Notable dealers returning include Campbell Wilson from London with Victorian and Modern British pictures, particularly works by or influenced by the Pre-Raphaelites, and Neil McRae from Auchterarder, a well-known Scottish art dealer.

Among the Scottish regulars who will be missed this time around are Decorative Arts @ Doune with their stock of Arts and Crafts silver and objects.

However, among the Scottish dealers who will line up are John Whitelaw, Jeremy Gow, Mir Russki, Becca Gauldie, Sandra Deas and James Strang.

So, although there will be plenty of variety on offer you can certainly expect a generous helping of Scottish School paintings, Mauchlineware, Wemyss ware, tartan ware, Glasgow School textiles and Scottish Arts and Crafts. Admission is £10.