By Kate Bartlett
This Labor Day weekend, cultivate a deeper connection with the arts at the Ellicottville Fine Arts and Crafts Festival Saturday August 31st – Sunday, September 1st on the lawn of the 1887 Building. Back for its second year, the show features some of the area’s best artisans and fine craftspeople, right in the heart of the village.
The Tri-County Arts Festival started the Labor Day Fine Arts Show in conjunction with the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce last year as a way to help the community connect with the arts. “It’s a great time of year to bring the community together in celebration of the arts,” says Paula Bernstein, Executive Director of Tri County Arts. “We were so warmly welcomed last year, and it was a great response. Not only is it a beautiful town, but the community of Ellicottville truly appreciates the arts and embraces what we’re about. It’s the perfect location for this Arts Show.”
Paula notes that the festival is intentionally kept smaller, in order to allow a more intimate setting. “Our hope is that festival goers have the opportunity to really connect with the artisans, and the creators of these pieces. We want to enrich the community and elevate their experience with the arts, forging a deeper connection between the artisans and their supporters, ultimately cultivating a deeper appreciation for the arts.”
Various local artists will showcase their pieces, offering an array of fine arts and crafts. While the artisans mostly have local roots, many are nationally renowned, including Michael Wintermantel. As former Executive Director of the Tri County Arts, Michael continues to support the counsel and contributes to the arts on a regular basis. Paula describes Michael as a world class master in landscaping and his passion for his work is evident in all that he does. He will be showcasing his paintings of various mediums, including oil on copper.
Metal sculpting artist Matthew Retzlaff will be in attendance, showcasing his sculpted work. Matthew is known for is use of found items in projection of larger familiar images, such as “Ruthie” the horse, who is made of reclaimed steel including tools, gears and pulleys. “Just because people throw it out and have no use for it, doesn’t mean it’s garbage,” Andy Warhol. Matt’s signature style of using reclaimed scrap, tools, gears and found items can be found in his public installation of “Moon & Stars”, located just north of his studio at the Springville Depot.
Ed Green, a pottery artist from Wellsville, will be thoughtfully presenting his beautifully created pieces utilizing various firing techniques. “Greens Ware” pottery is claimed to be always different and always new, as Ed individually paints each piece and doesn’t stick to a certain shape. You never know what you might find, it might be the perfect piece for you!
Lastly, featured artist from the Seneca Nation, Lorinda John will be showcasing her beautifully designed wooden pieces from cedar trees in the family’s lawn to make dreamcatchers. “Lorinda’s work is a beautiful representation of a traditional art form into a modern space of wonder.”
Paula, the artists and everyone at the Tri County Arts Council encourages readers to come out and connect with the arts this Labor Day Weekend. “It’s a great opportunity for artisan to build roots in the community, and for the community to make connections with the arts. Our region has many incredible artists, and we invite you to come explore their craft and celebrate the arts with us!”
For more information visit https://www.evlartshow.com/ and stop down this free, public event 10-5 on Saturday, August 31st and 10-4 on Sunday, September 1st on the lawn of the 1887 building, 1 Washington Street/Route 219. Follow Tri County Arts on Facebook @ tricountyartscouncil/ for upcoming events.