Creative minds to showcase their work at Piazza exhibition
Gifted graduates of a Renfrewshire creative business programme will showcase their products and share their start-up experiences at a twoday exhibition later this month.
Renfrewshire Council’s InCube Creative programme enables entrepreneurs to turn their talents into a viable commercial business.
Now the class of 2019 – seven creative ventures spanning jewellery making, textile design, art, millinery, ceramics and even knitting – will host an exhibition of their works at Paisley’s Piazza Shopping Centre on Friday and Saturday from noon to 5pm.
“The exhibition is a celebration of the six months we’ve spent developing our creat i v e businesses,” explains milliner Susie Rodgers.
“We will be showcasing our new work and will also be on hand to talk about our experiences in the business incubator programme, our inspirations and what it’s like to start your own business.
“I’ve learned so much through the InCube Creative programme, which will be great for my business going forward and, hopefully, we can inspire other people to consider taking their talents to the next level.”
InCu b e C re a t i v e h a s already helped 50 designers to commercialise their approach, providing free specialist support to build business acumen and bolster skills such as e-commerce and website development.
Cindy Robb, who coordinates the InCube creative programme, said: “We’re very proud of all our graduates and the class of 2019 is no exception, being a fantastic example of the breadth and depth of creative talent on our doorstep.
“I would encourage everyone to take the time to call in, enjoy the exhibition and talk to the exhibitors to hear about their experiences.”
Earlier this year, the council confirmed a new business development fund providing subsidised premise costs for entrepreneurs.
This enabled Up Hub Works to open its doors in Paisley High Street last month, with a showroom, workspace and shop dedicated to upcycling.
Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “Renfrewshire is renowned for its creative talents – with many local artists and designers now household names.
“We want to be the place of choice for creative companies and through business support programmes like InCube Creative and the creative hub development fund, we hope to attract more entrepreneurs to Renfrewshire.”
“Our new economic strategy places a keen focus on growing the creative industry sector further and we will be working closely with local entrepreneurs to understand how we can support them to flourish.”