Lessons Learned at Fine Arts and Craft Show

BayMoonDesign table at fine arts and craft show

Over Memorial Day weekend I participated in a members of the Delaware by Hand Artisans Fine Arts and Craft show.  It was a held outside on the grounds of the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Delaware. The show seemed to be heavily attended. I heard that my small town had 3,000 people at the Farmer's Market that day!

Metal Sculptures by 2nd Time Designs

I thought I would show you a few of the vendors that were there this year.  On one side of me had 2nd Time Designs.  You can tour their private gardens in Millsboro, Delaware to see more of their designs.  Every year I admire their metal art that they bring to this show. Who won't want one of these sculptures in their garden?   This year I had a chance to chat with the folks.  Since I am starting to work more with metal in my jewelry, I am familiar with how difficult it can be to cut and punch metal.  At first, I thought that is what these folks did to create these beauties.  I am sure that some cutting and punching goes into these designs, however, what these artisans are doing is recycling metal.  I am sure that they have a grand time hunting down metal shapes that they can use to create flowers, insects etc.

Metal flowers, butterflies and turtle by 2nd Time Designs

If you look closely at the bottom of this photo, you will spot a metal turtle that almost blends into the ground. The shell of the turtle is a repurposed helmet. How cute is that?  The large flowers had some sort of a wheel on the back.  I am a huge fan of recycling and repurposing so I was happy to see all of the metal turned into beautiful creations and not in the landfill.

Photography of Michael Ortiz of Limited Landscapes

My neighbor of the other side was Michael Ortiz of Limited Landscapes. He specializes in taking photos of Southern Delaware. I love the photo of an old barn which is no longer here. He was able to frame it with some of the wood from the barn. Once again, some art from repurposing.

More Photography of Michael Ortiz of Limited Landscapes

I enjoyed looking through his photography. I saw some scenes that I was familiar with from nearby Cape Henlopen State Park as well as some areas I have not traveled in Southern Delaware. All beautiful!

In addition to being a wonderful photographer, Michael is a really nice person to do a show with.  He introduced himself and gave a big welcoming smile when I started to set up that morning.  If you do a number of craft shows, you have probably encountered some grouchy and territorial neighbor vendors.  I know I have run into a few.  Michael is not that type--a real gentleman.

The weather forecast for this show called for a chance of rain in the afternoon. My husband who I could not do a show without his physical help, offered to set up our tent.  I was thrilled and surprised.  The last time we set that tent up it was a battle.  He purchased this particular tent because it was easy to pop up. That wasn't the case then or for the show.  I had to ask Michael for a hand with it or we wound never have gotten it set up. He was only to happy to help. Since then we have replaced the directions which came with the tent with some others we found on the Internet that enable you to actually have an easy to pop up tent.  

Custom stained glass by Sun Glass Studio

A few spots down from me I recognized a familiar face from Lewes--Connie Ballato of Sun Glass Studio. Her stunning creations can be found in area churches, homes, gardens, and offices. I bought a large stained glass fish for my husband for our 30th wedding anniversary which was more than 15 years ago. It has hung in our family room every year since then.

After every show I usually blog about some of the artisans that I have met and offer some lessons learned.  My lesson this year was using a tent is a good idea now that I have some better directions.  I didn't have to worry about the weather and it offered protection from the sun.  All good!  In case you are wondering, the rain came just as the show ended.

My other lesson learned is that is actually a good idea to pay more for a prime spot at a show.  I had a terrific spot part of which was just luck and it paid off in sales.  Next year I am going to be willing to pay more and go for location, location!  I do have some jewelry and handmade cards left from this show and they are listed in my online BayMoonDesign shop.

Father's Day Card by BayMoonDesign

 If you need a unique Father's Day card, visit my shop.

I also have handmade jewelry available.  Lots of my jewelry is nature or yoga related.

Lotus flower necklace by BayMoonDesign

This lotus flower necklace combines both of my loves--yoga and nature.  The necklace has a large, gold colored bronze lotus flower pendant. The aqua necklace also has two infinity symbols. I paired the bronze pieces with a aqua beads to create this pastel floral necklace which is 17 inches around.

I selected a lotus flower because it is one of the most delicate and beautiful flowers. Although lotus grows in muddy water, it grows beautiful and brings a smile on anyone's face who sees it. The Lotus has long been associated with purity, rebirth and beauty. I paired it with infinity symbols because of the shape is classic, fluid, and romantic all at the same time. Think love, for it is infinite, boundless, and everywhere. I think that this would make a beautiful anniversary gift.