Across Perth & Kinross, Perthshire Artisans is quietly reshaping what it means to be a creative working in a rural setting. For the designers, makers and artists who form this vibrant collective, the benefits are clear, meaningful connections, practical support and a shared understanding of how to build a sustainable rural creative micro-business.

Community sits at the heart of the group. Members consistently highlight the value of being connected to other locally based, like-minded creatives who are balancing the same realities, nurturing artistic practice while managing the day-to-day demands of self-employment.

Rural working may look idyllic, yet it brings its own set of challenges. Having access to trusted sector specific advice, guidance and encouragement from peers who understand these challenges is, members say, both reassuring and empowering.

Regular online catch-ups and in-person gatherings help maintain strong connections across the region, leaving members feeling energised, inspired and motivated. Alongside this sense of belonging, Perthshire Artisans offers tangible business support. Shared promotional opportunities, collective and individual marketing activity, and an additional e-commerce platform all provide valuable visibility, particularly for those juggling creative work with running a business.

Each Artisan’s practice may be distinct, but the challenges of rural self-employment are often shared. Established and supported on a non-profit basis by rural enterprise organisation GrowBiz, the network nurtures a culture of openness, generosity and mutual learning. There is almost always someone who has faced a similar hurdle and is willing to share their experience.

The annual call for new members is open throughout February. Further information is available on the Become an Artisan page at www.perthshire-artisans.scot, with applications closing on Saturday 28 February.

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