Diss Octagon Crafts Gallery launched by artistic couple

An art, printmaking and events organising duo have combined their talents to launch Octagon Crafts Gallery.

Annette Rolston, 59, and Mike Fenton, 63, from Brome, create bespoke hand-printed lampshades, as well as paper prints, paintings and drawings and have 35 years experience in the art industry.

Annette has spent the past 10 years producing work alongside her partner at designermakers21, opposite Diss Corn Hall, before opening Octagon Crafts Gallery in Mere Street in April.

The pair have gained experience in selling, putting on exhibitions, organising craft events and teaching printmaking in workshops.

“I have been passionate about art from an early age and always wanted to be an artist,” said Miss Rolston.

“After a degree in fine art, I did an MA in printmaking at Brighton Art College, specialising in lithography and screenprint. I started teaching printmaking in evening classes in London, then took a lecturing job teaching foundation art and design.

“I started at designermakers21 10 years ago with myself being a founder member and with some help from Diss Corn Hall.

“I initiated experience days and exhibitions there called Print In Action, where artists demonstrated printmaking techniques and have-a-go sessions for the public, with the next one scheduled for March 11.

“The most rewarding aspect of what we do is representing a variety of talented artists in the region and selling their work. I also enjoy meeting the public and providing special pieces of arts and crafts for them to enjoy.

“The Diss art scene is flourishing, mostly because the Corn Hall and designermakers21 have put it on the map for high-quality art and crafts.

“I have a ceramicist from Felixstowe, artists from across Norfolk and Suffolk, Ely, Lincoln and Colchester.

“We moved to the Mere to have more space to exhibit and benefit from better footfall.

Octagon Crafts is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm, and on Saturdays, from 10am to 5pm.