This coming weekend sees the third edition of the Fresh Finds, Gozo’s Artisan Market, and their first summer edition. Fresh Finds is a seasonal arts and artisan event from not-for-profit organisation, Fresh Finds – Gozo Mercato.

Founded to showcase the handmade craft and produce of local independent makers, artists, designers and farmers, the event gives visitors both the opportunity to browse quality goods produced locally and the chance to chat, and delve into the maker’s inspiration, ideas and ethos.

This summer-themed evening market includes organic botanical delights from herbal remedies crafted with ingredients from Petra’s Secret Garden in Qala, to loose leaf tea curated by tea experts Maltea Gourmet who have a passion for travel and draw their flavours from across Africa and Asia.

“Alongside, Katia Muscat will be offering visitors cups of ceremonial grade cacao, made using the raw bean from which chocolate is derived. Chilled for the heat, yet soothingly-velvety, it has a rich, deep chocolate aroma. It also contains Anandomide which is known as the ‘bliss’ molecule,” says Market Founder and Curator, Michelle Bartolo, from Gharb.

She explained that,“Katia’s connection to plant medicine started during her travels to Central and South America where she visited various Cacao farms & was present in harvesting, fermenting and preparing the cacao beans. It’s great to see this ancient tradition alive here in 21st century Gozo.”

The past that has also inspired fellow artisan Mica Bogen, an artist whose relief printing on handmade paper explores local folklore, mythology and Malta’s iconic megalithic goddesses, whilst jeweller Corinne Vella captures the joy of the Maltese summer in her bespoke beach-inspired jewellery.

“Every item I create is a medley of harmonious or contrasting colours that have a strong association with the sea whether the item is a pair of earrings, a pendant, a candle holder, or a wind chime,” she explains. “I come from hands-on, creative and inventive stock from both my mother’s and my father’s side. As we say in Maltese, ‘li jaraw ghajnejhom, jaghmlu idejhom’ (what they see with their eyes, they do with their hands), and so leaning into creativity was as commonplace for me growing up as hobz biz-zejt!”

The market will include 15 hand-chosen by Michelle and her team, and each artisan at the market will offer visitors an insight into their own creative stalls journey, their labours of love and their learnings along the way: there’s a story at every stall.

Visitors can also see live hair-dressing action and enjoy freshly-made dishes made with local fresh foods, meats and vegetables by Bradley Borg’s of Maxtar Street Food.

“We’re keen that the market brings together the island’s incredible past and enchanting landscapes with its vibrant traditions, creative and entrepreneurial spirit and a vision of a sustainable future,” continues Michelle, “We’re delighted that Nadur Council are kindly hosting the event, in the village square for locals and tourists alike.”

Fresh Finds – Artisan Market Summer Edition is on Saturday and Sunday, the 6th and 7th of July, in Nadur Square. Admission is free of charge and the event takes place between 6pm and 11pm.

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