Artists and crafters display their work at annual summer art fair

By Meghan Streit
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Making art—whether it’s painting, knitting, crafting jewelry, or some other hobby—can be a great way to express your creativity. For some people, their art is a time to relax in solitude; for others it’s a chance to socialize with those who share the same interest.

Whatever the case, handmade arts and crafts make unique gifts for friends and family and can be a customized addition to home décor.

Art fair raises money
Sedgebrook community members showed off their handiwork at an art fair in June, with about 20 artists and crafters displaying and selling their wares in the clubhouse. The fair was an opportunity for Sedgebrook artists to share their work with other residents and staff, and also to raise money for some worthwhile causes.

Diane Breckenridge, Muriel Sherman, and Ruth Wachspress put their knitting to good work. The trio knits colorful blankets for Project Linus, a nonprofit organization that donates blankets to children who are seriously ill. The women also sell hand-knit sweaters and other items, and donate the proceeds to a local domestic violence shelter.

Model ship building
Alice Wright, another creative Sedgebrook resident, builds detailed models of historic ships. Wright says she started her hobby when she retired from her job as a school teacher in 1980. She says the model ships can take two to three years to complete.

“I’ve enjoyed watching people come up to the cases and smile,” Wright said at the art fair. “That’s a joy for me.”