Art in the Park

Happy customer purchasing the three-legged table at Swartz Creek Art in the Park.

This past Saturday was Swartz Creek's Art in the Park. What a beautiful day it was! This is probably one of the best little juried art fairs in this area. Of all the shows I have been in, this one is my favorite. The organizers really treat the artists well here - from their "drive up" check in, many volunteers helping set up your tent - to an endless array of home made baked treats and fresh veggies, tent sitters stopping by frequently offering water or a break - yes, this fair is definitely the best. There was a constant stream of people coming by, so I'm afraid I only got one photo all day long. But, I suppose that's a good thing! And, not only did I do well, but my son made and sold gourd birdhouses and got himself a tidy little bit of cash in his pocket as well!  All in all - a very successful day for us both! 

It's Art - Waiting to Happen

Recycled - Repurposed - New Life - Functional "Green" Art 

I know some people are embarrassed when I stop along the curb and grab some oddball thing or another as we are driving along. And dumpsters....ooooh dumpsters! I love going to construction sites, because all that junk in the dumpster you see? A lot of it is really useful stuff!  It's not junk I tell you - it's art, waiting to happen!


Not only do I keep my eyes scanning the curbs for a good find, but I also frequent the thrift stores. I look for stuff that is old and tired, but still has some life in it. Maybe not the same life it once lived, maybe it's got a new life waiting. It may be waiting to become loved once again, rather than be discarded or tossed to a landfill.


I really need a shop with some good wood tools - saws, drill presses, etc. I have so many ideas for things, that my mind is overflowing. And it kills me to pass something by, simply because I don't have the necessary tools to bring my vision to life.


For now, thought I'd show you a tired little table I picked up for a few bucks. Actually, it doesn't look all that tired anymore. It took a little elbow grease to remove it's former self, and then some creativity added to it - and what once was destined for a landfill, will soon (hopefully) be a treasured item for someone's home.


This photo shows it still in pieces - it's presently receiving multiple coats of satin polyurethane. I'll try and post another when it's done and ready for sale.