User:Minnasisko

Made in Whitstable
Made in Whitstable is a local creatives networking group founded by Finnish Photographer Minna Kurko in Whitstable, Kent, UK in 2010, with the help of local artist Paul Elliott who was a key member and the main curator from the very beginning. The Horsebridge Arts Centre was often the back drop for exhibitions, where many local artists came together to show their works.

It started with a FaceBook page to get interest and noticed by local art scene. This was followed by a .ning.com network website, which allowed the members to have their own page/space in which they could show off their works and to communicate and create events.

The group was created to help artists to show their portfolios and exhibit together, without the great expense of solo shows. The idea came up while setting up the local creatives christmas fair in 2009, at the Fishslab Gallery (of Whitstable Oxford St.). Mainly it was to help upcoming creatives to split the costs of renting gallery space, which can be expensive, and this way made shows possible.

The groups main purpose was to bring down boundaries while encourage the individual makers and artist, group up and arrange events and shows between themselves. All of this, without vetting or committees, which can be intimidating. 'The founders motto still is; Everyone deserves a chance to show their creations, in harmony and with support of others.''

The .ning.com network has since been run down - while today, the Facebook page is the main link to the groups admins and networks. ' At present time, the concept of MADE IN WHITSTABLE has many forms and the brand name is used widely, and it still keeps the Whitstable artists community networking together.

''Source; Founder 2010-2019 ''