By Carol McCracken  (Post # 290)

Juried artists from Jackman to Kennebunkport exhibited their upscale art at East End Community School on the Hill over the two-day weekend – art bound to inspire artists as well as any one aspiring to be one.  The 43 exhibits were a wonderful mix of carving, furniture makers, glass blowers and jewelry for good measure.  The show was presented by The Maine Crafts Guild and the organizer for it was Joelle Webber.  

Gerald  Hoff and his wife own Maine Bone Carving – a company thata creates beautiful conemporary designs out of bones made from moose bones.  Nine years ago Hoff was responsible for amending Maine law to permit moose bones to be sold and used for carving, etc.  He’s looking for gallery space in this area.  Please visit www.mainebonecarving.com for more information

Rob Brand is the desginer and craftsman for Sebago Furniture in Naples.  What rob calls his ‘east meets west’ designed bed was especially appearing in cherry wood.  A highlight of his floor samples were end tables made from curly cherry wood.  The wood has a distinctive shimmer to it.  Rob delivers for free anywhere in the state.  (At least I think that’s what he said!)  For more information, please visit www.sebagofurniture.com.

Fiona Clark and Vincent DeLIsle own Firefly Studios in Jefferson.  They make unique earrings and necklaces.  In fact, MHN had the pleasure of buying one of their necklaces at a Jefferson Historical Society event several years ago.  Please visit their web at fireflystudiosme.com

Organizer Joelle Webber owns a handcrafted book business, Mermaid Bindery on Westport Island. www.mermaidbindery.com  Joelle said that it was a good show.  Everyone made enough to cover their expenses and that the show will be returning to EECS next year.  The organization will be hosting another two-day show Saturday and Sunday, November 7th and 8th at the Maine State Museum in Augusta.

Lou charlett, a past president of the Guild, said that it is 36 years old, statewide and it’s the best craft organization in the state.  Participants must be juried into the organization and then they are eligible to apply for shows.

Please visit www.mainecraftsguild.com for more.