LOVELL – More than 60 area artists will show and sell their work at the 13th annual Lovell Arts and Artisans Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the New Suncook Elementary School on Route 5.
The Women’s Library Club of Lovell organized the first fair in 1976 as a fund-raiser for the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library. The first year, only a few artists and artisans exhibited their work at the fair, held in a large barn. The fair moved from one site to another to accommodate more artists over the next 10 years, until it finally settled in the New Suncook School in 1987. Since then, all artists must be judged by an independent crafters organization before they can participate in the fair.
Eight artists are new to the fair this year. Chairwoman Irene St. Germain said artist Jennifer Neilsen will be “a nice addition to the fair.” The Portland woman designs sterling silver jewelry with beach stones and pearls. According to her Web site, Neilsen’s work also incorporates sea glass, shells and other objects.
“Absolutely gorgeous,” said fair organizer Ann Williams.
Diane Cole of Raymond is also exhibiting for the first time this year. Cole’s woven baskets are created using a traditional Appalachian technique with the artist’s own decorative touches.
Another new addition, Christine Rugullies, of Lisbon, brings her whimsical dolls to the fair this year. Rugullies has been designing her unique, collectible dolls since 1987, incorporating antique fabrics, animal hair and beads. Several artists returning to the fair this year have exhibited their works in most, if not all, of the annual fairs. Lovell artist Roger Williams participated in the first fair, as did potter Frances Reicken, also of Lovell. Ken Kantro of Lovell Pewter will also return this year.
In addition to works available for sale, there will be 11 raffle prizes donated by the artists. Among them are jewelry by Neilsen and Kantro, a basket by Cole, and a wooden bowl made by Harrison artisan Jeff Petersen. The raffle items are on display at the Hobbs Library until the fair. Raffle tickets may be purchased before the fair by contacting Jane Gleason at 928-2948.
Other special events this year include a used book sale and demonstrations in weaving, wood turning, and glass blowing.
Lunch, beverages and snacks will be sold in the school cafeteria. All proceeds will benefit the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library.
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