August has some of the Chicagoland area's best shows and so far, this month hasn't been disappointing. The hot weather has made it uncomfortable going to shows but unless it is pouring rain, you can't let that stop you from going to a great festival.
Art at the Glen was very good this year. There were new artists there and that is always a bonus. Producing a show has to be tough, limited number of booths and people want to see their favorites but then you want to have new artists at the same time. I got to meet Ray Mosteller and see his gorgeous photography. He is as nice as his work is beautiful and I had a great time talking with him.
I broke my rule not to buy earrings (again) when I found a new jeweler who had never shown in the Chicago area. Turns out that during the winter, they spend their time not even 10 miles from where I live in Florida. I found another new jeweler who does amazing things with pearls and bought a bracelet that when I wear it, I can't stop looking at it. It is one of those pieces that you go to 20 festivals for-that piece that makes it all worthwhile.
From a quality standpoint, I would put the Glen very close to Port Clinton. It is one of Amy's best shows.
Tucked away in a corner of downtown Milwaukee is the Morning Glory Fine Craft Fair. Last year I was lucky enough to meet Linda Anderson. This year I got to meet Patricia Hecker and see her wonderful boxes. My cousin, who is my festival companion was looking for an artist she hadn't seen in a long time and it turned out to be Patricia. I also got to visit with Nels. He is probably the happiest guy at any festival. He has the most fun phtography (as well as beautiful) and some pictures made me homesick for Florida.
One of the best things about Morning Glory is that in addition to the good quality of the artists, there are many that don't venture down to Illinois so they are new to me. That is very enjoyable.
It was a good two weeks and the 2nd half of August should be just as good if not better,
Comments
Before I forget, Amy had banners on the street lights at O'Hare Airport for Gold Coast and Port Clinton in addition to her usual tv and newspaper advertising. I was impressed by that.
We had some friends in town who stayed in Chicago for a few days and said they were amazed at how many people were downtown so that bodes well for GC. I think Grant Park is a great place to have it. I'm curious about the reports too!!
Going to Gold Coast this weekend? I can't wait to see the reports on this event -- how the new location works, how were the logistics -- parking, seeing everything, etc. Lots of people on this site will be exhibiting. I think this show will pick up lots of tourists because of this location, plus spark an interest from Chicagoans who haven't been to GC lately.