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Art and crafts, as different as the two forms of expression can be, pair up harmoniously like wine and cheese, or peanut butter and jelly. |
As explained by Wikipedia: “Generally, craft involves ability and technique and is historically associated with the production of useful objects. Art appeals purely at the level of imagination and isn’t good for any practical utility, except the cultivation of the human spirit.” Right, that’s exactly what I thought!
But, regardless of whether or not you can tell the difference between art and crafts, you can see some of the very best of both at any of fifteen weekend shows each year that are put on by Robin Roberts Promotions.
Robin and Lee Roberts have been perfecting the art of the craft show since 2007. Together they arrange for the venues, coordinate logistics, supervise, organize and oversee each component of the show. From the careful selection of vendors, drawing from a diverse mix of over 900 artists and craftsmen, to arranging for live music, dancers and artist demonstrations, every detail has been attended to, insuring that the experience is successful and enjoyable for both attendees and exhibiters. Those festivals which are held outdoors also offer delicious food at very reasonable prices.
The shows bring crowds of visitors into the mountain communities, helping to boost the local economy while the promoters also give back to the communities with donations to nonprofit organizations. The average show draws over 5,000 visitors a weekend and last year the holiday show at Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris welcomed almost 10,000 people over 3 days. |
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The artists, who come from all over the southeastern United States, have gone through a stringent selection process to qualify. Each is in attendance at their booth for the entire show, answering questions or demonstrating technique. You’ll find wood turners and wood carvers, potters and gourd crafters, jewelers and spinners, basket weavers, Alpaca products, leather and felt makers, handmade soaps and candles, yard art and fiber art and folk art. There’s a blacksmith who sets up a demonstration booth and photographers who have captured the beauty of the mountains forever. The level of creativity is astonishing.
Weekends are busy times for most of us these days but if it is possible, set aside some time to relax and enjoy one of these shows. Oh, did I mention the fresh Lavender/Raspberry Lemonade and the Pesto Gorgonzola fries?
Here is a partial schedule of upcoming shows in 2013:
August 24-25 Young Harris Art Festival, Mayor’s Park, Young Harris, Ga.
September 28-29 Helen’s Alpine Village A&C Festival, Helen, Ga.
October 26-27 Rabun Leaf Arts Show, Clayton, Ga.
November 22-24 Amicalola Holiday Show, Amicolola Falls State Park, Dawsonville, Ga.
For additional information: email mermaidrobin@aol.com or visit their website at Robinrobertspromotions.com |
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