The dark belly of the Native Sons Hall in Courtenay is host to a 'craft fair with a twist' this Saturday from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m.
Over 50 creators of beautiful, breathtaking and bizarre art and craft will descend on the Lower Native Sons Hall for the second annual Elevate Winter Bazaar. This highly anticipated craft fair offers attendees the opportunity to discover enticing, intriguing and unusual works from sublimely inspired local artisans.
The Elevate Winter Bazaar is the sister fair to the Underground Craft Fair held during the Elevate Arts Festival. The concept behind Elevate is to create an inclusive and exciting platform for cutting-edge Comox Valley art and craft and to celebrate the diversity of the grassroots arts scene.
The Elevate Winter Bazaar is a showcase of talented Valley artists — many of whom create works that don't fit in the usual 'craft fair box.' From veteran jewelers, screen printers and painters to up-and-coming multi-media artists, herbalists, leather artists and designers, Elevate delivers the goods!
Add to that tarot readings and truffles and you'll be left feeling — elevated.
In keeping with the Elevate Arts Festival model — interactivity, music and food are also a big part of the event. Music from em.ash, DJ Eliazar and Annie Becker will create an enticing backing track to the day.
Attendees are also invited to be part of a series of workshops throughout the day that offer the opportunity to engage the elevation.
Always wanted to spin fire but didn’t know where to start? Take part in a fun workshop that will introduce you to the basic moves and safety precautions.
Or check out two upcycling workshops. Fabric knitting is all about turning your favourite beat-up T-shirt into a scarf or a torn set of cotton sheets into a bath mat. Bring an old shirt or sheet (or any fabric – cotton is best) and a pair of knitting needles for this workshop.
Or how about upcycled wine sleeves for gift wrapping wine bottles? Come craft your own and make it a gift they won't forget. Bring an empty wine bottle, and any natural material that you'd like to use.
Ever made Zentangles or tried paper-cutting? Learn about paper-cutting and create unique, handmade cards. Zentangle is a simple, easy to learn, repetitive pattern drawing method that increases focus and creativity. Usually done in black and white, we will expand this practice and add colour as well.
Paper-cutting is an elegant art form that creates beautiful "drawings" made with only an Exacto knife. Mixing both of these disciplines together allows for whimsical and elaborate art-making.
Details about workshops and facilitator info is all available at www.elevatethearts.com?
If you're looking for a way to fuel your creative passions and discover unique creations from local artists, the Elevate Winter Bazaar is the perfect destination this weekend. Make a day of it and take in workshops, delicious food and great music and visit with inspiring folks from across our community.
Admission is by donation and all donations collected are dedicated to the Elevate Arts Festival.
— Elevate Winter Bazaar