SUPPORTING local producers and businesses is important to farmers as rural communities are often home to skilled artisans who create unique, handmade crafts such as hand-painted pottery, hand-carved wooden items, or intricately woven textiles.

One-of-a-kind pieces reflect the craftsmanship of the countryside and add a touch of rustic charm to any home and in Perthshire there’s an initiative that helps independent craftspeople to promote their work.

The Scottish Farmer: Illustrator Jon Bishop is creative in ComrieIllustrator Jon Bishop is creative in Comrie

Perthshire Artisans was set up by specialist rural enterprise agency GrowBiz to promote the region’s diverse range of creative talent, enabling local artists and makers to find new markets as well as getting business support and providing an artists’ community. There are now over 30 diverse creatives featured on the group’s website, ranging from classical painters, photographers, ceramicists, and textile designers to glass artists, illustrators, contemporary artists, candlemakers, jewellers, and more.

The platform enables consumers to access “off the beaten track” creatives and connect with their work, values, inspiration, and processes in one online marketplace – providing an unusual and thoughtful option for purchasing gifts for family and friends this Christmas.

The Scottish Farmer: Nicola McCabe is a ceramicist who creates modern homewares in MuthillNicola McCabe is a ceramicist who creates modern homewares in Muthill

However, there are also some upcoming events where you can meet some of the craftspeople in person. Ceramicist Nicola McCabe, who creates modern, ceramic homewares from her home studio in Muthill, and illustrator Jon Bishop, who is based in Comrie, are just some of the creatives who will be out and about at pre-Christmas events selling their wares. Find out more about members of the group and the full list of events at www.perthshire-artisans.scot.