Craft Focus - Apr/May (Issue 66)

creating the future products of this kind in their own shops. “With artists from Germany, China, India, Japan and Russia, we created authentic and innovative shop presentations and gave live artistic demonstrations,” explains Akim Walta, show curator. “There was something for everyone, from calligraffiti and manga graffiti to urban script. This year, we also arranged a performance in the outdoor area for the first time.” LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES As always, the Creativeworld Forum featured a host of workshops and product demonstrations. “Our varied and interesting workshop programme is a genuine trade visitor magnet,” says Michael Reichhold. “The 40 places were always occupied, and on occasion, we had to find additional seating to meet the demand.” The 13 th Creative Impulse Award was also announced at the show. Altogether, 74 products were entered for the coveted prize, and this year, first place went to H Schmincke & Co for its Josef Horadam watercolour wheel. “To learn that we had won first prize was a wonderful surprise,” says Nils Knappe, CEO at H Schminke & Co. “For us, this award is recognition of the fact we have created something extraordinary, and something that inspires and stimulates thought.” Visit creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com for more information. VIEW FROM THE TOP Creativeworld’s Director, Michael Reichhold, shares his thoughts on this year’s show Was Creativeworld 2018 a success? Creativeworld was a complete success this year. Its particular appeal lies in the selection of manufacturers and products, confirming its position as the leading international trade fair for the hobby, craft and supplies sector. Altogether, 336 exhibitors from 39 countries transformed Frankfurt’s Exhibition Halls 4.1 and 4.2 into the creative centre of the world. The interest shown by the large number of trade visitors only corroborates this, and the outstanding proportion of international attendees also plays a major role in the show’s continued success. The number of visitors, the high quality of customers and the levels of international participation all contributed to a very positive mood in the exhibition halls. Were there any particular highlights? Creativeworld is compelling and lively and has its eyes fixed firmly on the future. At our show, trade visitors have always been able to find anything and everything that the creative heart desires. At exhibitors’ stands, things are made, painted and tailored, while jewellery is designed, packaged and discussed among colleagues. This year’s most innovative products were honoured at the Creative Impulse Awards, while the latest crafting must- haves were showcased at the Creativeworld Trend Show. Some exciting themes, such as street art, had their own dedicated show, while the Creativeworld Forum featured a rolling programme of workshops and product demonstrations. Why should craft retailers and wholesale suppliers visit next year’s show? Creativeworld is the most important fair of its kind. Any potential trade visitor who does not come to Frankfurt misses out on the latest trends, innovations and an opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with others across the sector. It is equally important for manufacturers to have a presence in Frankfurt, because there is no comparable event anywhere in the world. It’s the trend platform and ordering opportunity of the year. 80 craft focus