Creative Sark is a charity that supports creative people on the island by promoting their work and courses throughout the year.
Amanda Petrie, who launched the very first Creative Sark workshops in June 2013, recalls how it all began with a creative exhibition at the Island Hall. Sark residents brought along everything from handmade crafts to artwork and creative projects, with live demonstrations adding interest. On the Sunday, visitors could join workshops, including a creative writing session led by renowned Danish author Lene Kaaberbøl, who was then living on Sark.
Since those early beginnings, the Creative Sark workshops have grown into an eagerly anticipated annual event, occurring every year during the second week of June. Enjoyed by both locals and visitors, the week offers a varied mix of hands-on experiences, with something to inspire everyone.
This year is no exception; you can unwind with Flow Tai Chi and Himalayan Singing Bowl Therapy; explore some of Sark’s stunning private gardens, or join a Garden Sketching session in one of the most beautiful gardens in Sark. At Grand Dixcart, there’s a fascinating Permaculture Garden Talk and Walk, while nature lovers can head to the coast to forage for seaweed and create beautiful seaweed prints.
Try your hand at tapestry weaving; textile weaving, or one or two pottery workshops. Writers can immerse themselves in a special nature-inspired writing day, while chocolate lovers will not want to miss the irresistible chocolate-making workshop at Caragh’s chocolate factory.
There’s also the chance to tour La Seigneurie, where art, beautiful antiques, and fascinating history come together in a truly unique setting.
And it’s not all workshops, Creative Sark is about sharing ideas, meeting people, and enjoying the island’s convivial atmosphere. If you simply want to make progress on your own creative project, you can gather with others at the Mermaid Tavern for a relaxed and sociable creative session. Music lovers and musicians can enjoy an Open-Mic Night at The Old Hall, for live performances and island talent.
The week concludes with a traditional Sark veille in the medieval Cider Barn, a magical evening where everyone brings a bottle and a plate to share, and the entertainment comes from the participants themselves through music, singing, storytelling, and poetry.
Full details and the workshop schedule can be found on the Creative Sark website or Facebook page. Workshop brochures can be picked up at both the Sark & Guernsey tourism offices; the Island Hall, the Sark Art Gallery, the Harbour Café, and Food Stop supermarket.
