Craft show at Harley School offers break from mall madness
With a brown-papered package under her left arm, Diane Blevins walked out satisfied and unstressed.
She planned to get a jump-start on holiday shopping for family but wanted to avoid the frenzy of Black Friday and the overall crowding at local malls during the next few weeks.
So she decided to spend Saturday at the Rochester Folk Art Guild’s 49th annual Holiday Festival of Crafts at the Harley School in Brighton.
The sale, which continues through today, features hand-crafted glass jewelry, wooden furniture, knitted clothing items and dozens of pottery pieces, all made by members of the art guild, an organization of local artisans in Middlesex, Yates County.
“Not only are the items unique and the quality amazing, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed for Christmas shopping,” said Blevins, of Brighton, who purchased two children’s books and handmade notecards for family.
Living on the 350-acre East Hill Farm in Middlesex, the guild members include single men and women as well as families living in dwellings and dormitory-style residences. Guild members also have a craft shop in the Finger Lakes featuring music recordings and other works.
Gabriel Schliffer, an art guild member, said there is something rewarding about not only creating his work but also seeing others enjoy it.
He interacted with customers throughout the day, showing off some wooden toys.
“American craftsmanship is in a decline because so many things are made overseas,” said Schliffer. “We’re proud of the work we do and we want to help preserve the art of working with our hands.”
Teresa Sheffield walked past several carved wooden bowls and ran her fingers through silk-screened holiday cards. A pottery and photography fan, she was determined to find a gift.
“I haven’t found anything yet, but I am in the mood to buy. And when you are, it isn’t hard to find something you like, especially since everything is so beautiful here,” said Sheffield, of Gates.
ELAMOTHE@DemocratandChronicle.com
If you go
What: The Rochester Folk Art Guild Holiday Festival of Crafts.
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today.
Where: The Harley School, 1981 Clover St., Brighton.
Web: www.rfag.org
