HONITON in Devon is the first town to announce a major festival to mark National Antiques Week.
With its 85 dealers, two firms of auctioneers and numerous
associated specialist firms, from November 14-20, the first ever
Honiton Antiques Festival will showcase events ranging
from special dealer exhibitions to talks a fair and auctions.
The initiative is backed by Honiton Town Council and its Mayor,
Councillor Vernon Whitlock, Honiton Chamber of Commerce, Honiton
Museum and Honiton Tourist Information Centre.
"Honiton is the jewel in Devon's crown when it comes to hunting
for antiques." said organiser Elizabeth Chilcott. "By joining
forces, we the traders in antiques-related businesses in the town,
intend to attract a big influx of collectors and enthusiasts during
the seven days of the Festival."
"We also hope to showcase the diverse range of skills and
knowledge our people have about antiques and fine art from all
periods in history. We're sure there will be something to interest
people of all ages and tastes," added dealer Valentine Butler.
The festival will also promote the "Antiques are Green" message
and encourage new, young collectors who might be looking to turn
their hobby into a career. The organisers will communicate with
careers advisers in the county and students from Honiton Community
College will film events during the week.
Exhibitions happening all week in Honiton include: Chairs
from 1650 to the Twentieth Century at Roderick Butler, Marwood
House; Clarice Cliff Pottery at Upstairs Downstairs
Antiques; Prints and Maps of Honiton at Graham York Rare
Books; Contemporary Art at The Grove Antiques Centre and,
on the quirky side, Skirt Lifters and Glass Hats, also at
The Grove.
Honiton's auctioneers are also backing the festival. Bearnes,
Hampton and Littlewood will hold a series of free specialist
valuation days culminating on Friday, November 18 with a reception
and auction preview, while Chilcotts will auction the important
Carl Rosen Collection of Honiton Pottery on Saturday, November
19.
Antique shops and both auction rooms will be open on Sunday,
November 20 and Honiton Museum is opening specially, with the
Tourist Information Centre opening for longer and offering help to
guests and visitors throughout the week.
Another innovative event is the Restoration and Renovation Fair
at Mackarness Hall on Saturday, November 19. Local specialist
restorers of furniture, silver, ceramics, pictures, paper, clocks,
textiles, rugs, books, stained glass and gilding will demonstrate
their skills and offer advice to anyone looking to have a treasured
possession repaired or renovated.
A 'Guess the Value' competition, will run throughout the
week.
For further information, visit www.honitonantiquesfestival.com
Follow us on:
