Hand Crafted

Various Artists, Authors, and Craft Makers Display Their Creativity Through Art At The 2020 Greenbelt Arts Festival

By Cecil Merkerson III

Let your mind wander and be the catalyst for something extraordinary as artists demonstrate their talent, passion and uniqueness during this holiday season.

The Greenbelt Festival of Lights Juried Art and Craft Fair is a show that has been conducted for 48 years. It is a show that displays the talents of local artists, authors and many others such as artisans that work with wood, glass, fibers, ceramics and more.

This year, the fair will take place online. Guests can shop directly from the vendor with all proceeds going to the artist. This show differs from previous years as it is an opportunity to connect with artists who would ordinarily be seen at the live two-day show.

Fifty-seven exhibitors are participating this year, including 54 artisans and three nonprofit organizations.

Arts Supervisor for Greenbelt Recreation Nicole DeWald talked about the professionals in this year’s event and what they gain from being involved.

“Our event is in support of local artists, artisans, and authors, so this is an opportunity for people to shop local and shop small and support the amazing artisans in our region.”

DeWald, who has been running the event for 21 years, spoke about the importance of coming out and supporting these artists, who have had to cancel a lot of their events due to the pandemic restrictions, “The dollars that are spent are helping their neighbors and the local economy as it is a way to directly support the producers of the wonderful hand made goods that are available. In a time that is very much challenging, we know that they are very grateful for the continued opportunity to connect with the customers who do appreciate their work.”

Some of the artists featured this year are the Friday Night Potters, who consist of Karen Arrington, Amy Castner, and Johnathan Gordy, who make handcrafted functional pottery

Rachel Ann Cross creates mosaic wall art and ornaments often with a bird theme.

Damien Ossi makes elegant hand carved bowls, utensils, and lidded pots from a wide variety of different wood types.

This year’s event will be held from November 27th through December 20th.