August 11th & 12th, 2017

The Bellefonte Arts and Crafts Fair, which is scheduled to take place this August 11^th-12^th, is an exciting two days for community members to come together and enjoy the talented artistic works and craftsmanship of Bellefonte residents and visitors alike.

Along with the large display of artistic pieces for viewing pleasure and purchase, the fair will also feature a tasty food selection from many of Bellefonte’s local joints, not to mention a backdrop of the beautiful Talleyrand Park.

What can guests to the annual event expect? Based on the artistic diversity of recent years, a lot. Here, we look back at 2015’s title winners, taking note of the impressive creations that got them recognized:

Best Returning Artist: Tammy DeCastro, Eleanor Grace Designs

Tammy DeCastro is a local jewelry designer who crafts all of her items by hand and, aside from craft fairs, sells them on her Etsy page, EleanorGraceDesign. What made her jewelry a returning favorite? Her pieces, inspired by the many characteristics that she used to describe her late mother, Eleanor Grace—“fun, silly, inspirational, beautiful, elegant, soft, sassy, sexy”—maintain a classic vintage charm with a touch of modernity.  DeCastro uses very high quality materials in the production of her jewelry, leading to bold, distinctive statement pieces that can withstand the test of both time and fashion.

For DeCastro’s Etsy page, visit shop.etsy.com/eleanorgracedesign

Committee’s Choice: Karen Acciani, Tassels by Sew Karen

Adding to the the fair’s aura of originality, Karen Acciani partakes in a different sort of craft. Her Facebook page, Tassels by Sewkaren, features a wide array of meticulously crafted, creatively unique tassels. She also provides some ideas of places to hang the uncommon decoration. Whether festive or a year-round staple, Acciani’s tassels are certain to spice up your home décor.

For Acciani’s Facebook page, visit www.facebook.com/Tasselsbysewkaren  

Best in Show: Cliff Rigby, Rigby

How does one go about earning best in show? Just ask Cliff Rigby of Troy, PA. Rigby is a master woodworker with a passion for crafting  “heirloom quality end-grain chopping blocks and cutting boards,” a skill he says was first sparked all the way back in the 7^th grade. But these beautifully multi-colored patterns of wood aren’t just for aesthetic appeal. According to Rigby’s website, the utilization of end-grain wood is a strategic choice due to its natural healing qualities, which allows the products to last for generations.

For Rigby’s website, visit www.rigbyblock.com

 

Do you have a creative knack worth showing off? Visit www.bellefontefair.org to complete your artist’s application, which is also available for youth. Whether as an artist, attendant or attendee, we can’t wait to see you there!