ArtFest 2012

ArtFest went pretty well this year. We remembered the trash cans and the balloons (the gas canister--brand new--was empty--manual blowing up blows). We only had one no show, and only one vendor opted out early. Sure wish we could get confirmations from the artists earlier. When half the show doesn't "show" until the last two weeks, we don't have time to get the advertising that we can now afford. Oh well...

Our artists were great this year, both returning and new. The quality of the work was especially good, and many visitors came back the second day. We had several calls after the show for artists' contact info.

Left to right--Brian Gebert, Kim Mason, Carolyn Watermiller, Alyson East

The Best of Show prize went to Kim Mason and Brian Gebert, jewelers and metal work. In a tie for second were potter Carolyn Watermiller and Michele Powers-Hardy, jeweler (the blue jean & boots table is hers'). My camera does not do justice to their work, or those of the following artists.

Gebert & Mason

Carolyn Watermiller aka Clay Woman

Alyson & Michele Powers-Hardy

Michele Powers-Hardy

Winners were selected by popular vote, with visitors marking their ballots with the booth number of their choice. First place received $100, and the second place winners received $50 each. We wish each artist could be honored for their creativity and skill. Here are a few more pictures--

Susana Andrews

Susana Andrews is a previous Best of Show winner. Her weaving demonstration is always popular with visitors.

Vicki Hudson

Vicki Hudson incorporate unique elements in her jewelry--and then frames them beautifully, gift within a gift.

Joyce McKenstry

Joyce McKenstry has been at ArtFest three years running. Her jewelry designs are classic.

Don Lightburn

Wilbur is on his second cholla walking stick from Don Lightburn. His canes are sturdy but light, and skillfully crafted.

Karen & Dana Robbins

The Robbins hand blown glass was very popular, and displayed everything from Christmas ornaments, to hummingbird feeders, to an artful pumpkin.

Wendell Unzicker

The "Unzipped" colored pencil  work by Wendell Unzicker was colorful, slightly surreal, and wholly beautiful.

Neal Drago

Martie Anspach

Richard Elvis

Richard Elvis' lightcatchers etch a fairy on the wall...

Belinda East--Bel was a huge help, a cheerful greeter, and an artist herself when she's not teaching.

Don Shapiro, seated, & friend

We can't forget our musicians Don Shapiro and Drew Fowler. Don and friend are playing cigar box guitars. The guitars are made in Madrid and sold at Roadside Attraction. They have a wonderful sound, and look great too.