Eclipse prepares its art show
Published 8:51 pm Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Four years ago, it started out as a way to bring local artists together to showcase their talents.
Today the Eclipse Extravaganza has become one of the biggest craft fairs in North Suffolk, so much so that it has to turn down potential vendors.
“We really cannot grow anymore,” said Paula Hicks, one of the event’s organizers. “We can only refine our quality.”
Every year the craft show is held at the C.E.&H. Ruritan House, located on Eclipse Drive. Hicks said it was important for organizers and participants to keep the extravaganza in the house as it was fitting with the community that was participating.
“It keeps our show quaint and charming, and we like it,” she said.
The extravaganza will boast a diverse line of arts and crafts, including original artwork, basketry, stained glass, embellished glass, ironwork, pottery and whimsical tile.
The artists range from full-time professional artists to those who are pursuing side projects. All the work is of the highest quality, Hicks said, and some even has the home feeling of the community.
It is not uncommon to find pieces depicting creeks, the Kings Highway Bridge and boating all reflecting Crittenden’s history of fishing and boatbuilding.
Hicks said the hometown feel is fitting, considering it was community members who helped build the extravaganza in the first place
“They had a community art show,” Hicks said. “They stopped putting it on and then it was mostly all community outcry that they would like to see another community art show back again — local people who wanted a place to buy local crafts for their holiday shopping.”
Additionally, this year, Hicks and other local cooks will be selling hot soups (take-out only), homemade breads and rolls, pastries and desserts for people to enjoy, as well.
“We really have wanted to give people a place where they can come, shop with their neighbors and have a good time,” Hicks said.
The fourth annual extravaganza will be held Nov. 21 from 10 to 4 p.m.