David Bisson, a respected Wrexham jeweller currently studying for a PhD at Glyndŵr University, will host the inaugural Mold Contemporary Arts Fair on July 4.
Inspired by all-things American, David insists the date is merely a coincidence, though he will be looking to bring an international flavour to proceedings.
He will be joined at the town’s Daniel Owen Centre by Glyndŵr alumni Jenni Steele and David Brightmore, who are forging successful careers in the creative industries having graduated with postgraduate degrees in recent times.
Jenni, a photographer and filmmaker who counts textiles and washing lines among her inspirations, even designed the poster and flyer for the show.
David – who works with people with learning difficulties – wants to create a legacy for north east Wales and help put Mold on the map from an arts perspective.
He said: “Art fairs are booming across the UK, but there aren’t too many annual festivals of this kind in North Wales to my knowledge.
“I’ve travelled all over the world and been to a lot of events; I’d like to replicate them here in Mold, bringing together people from different backgrounds who produce a wide variety of artwork.
“Obviously this will be the first arts fair I’ve organised but I’m hoping it’s the first of many, depending on the support and backing we receive from the artists and public.”
David, who has been a jeweller since 1979, creates collages and sculptures from ‘found objects’. The event will form part of the thesis for his PhD as well as giving him an opportunity to exhibit his work.
“The day will be very much about North Wales, celebrating the region and drawing inspiration culturally, socially and artistically.
“As well as inviting graduates we would also like to welcome students and artists not directly linked to Glyndŵr University. Mold is a town that celebrates independent and artisan businesses, as well as creativity, so it’s the perfect venue at the perfect time.”
David has received support from across the University for his proposals, notably from Dr Stuart Cunningham, a senior lecturer in Computing and the 62 year-old’s PhD supervisor.
“David’s work is fascinating and straddles the border between traditional craft and fine art,” said Dr Cunningham.
“This fusion is extremely interesting and should draw interest and attention to both disciplines. It’s particularly relevant since there is such a strong history of crafts and making in Wales, but these skills and forms of art are declining nationally.
“David’s show should help raise awareness of these issues and is bound to enthuse many budding makers.”
For information, follow @moldfair on Twitter.
