COLRAIN – It’s not too late in fall for a scenic drive through Colrain, seeing the rural places where some incredible art is made.
The 15th annual Crafts of Colrain takes place Veterans Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10 and 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is a self-guided tour to the homes and studios of area crafters and partnering restaurants, with hilltop views all along the way.
The newest artist in this venue is Kevin French, who makes lamps and lights from 1930s telephones, hand tools and re-purposed wine and whiskey barrels. As night falls, look for his LED-lit orbs dancing in the trees near his studio in Foundry Village.
Some familiar artists have developed new products for this event. At Keldaby Farm, Cynthia Herbert is weaving infinity shawls, some made of brushed mohair, to wear on a an evening out.
Fiber artist Ruby Rice is now offering framed and unframed museum-quality prints of her mixed media wall art. From Alan Ladd come intricate, inlaid wooden boxes, cabinets and cutting boards, and from Marilyn Beal, colorful silk scarves. Other offerings include hand-forged iron accessories, New England furniture, handmade baskets, carved gourds and fishing lures. There are pastels, photography and calligraphy. Jewelry, wool clothing and throws, pottery and wooden bowls.
Along the way, children and animals lovers can see the sheep and goats, the peacocks and chickens, and other animals that provide a strong motif in Colrain-made art.
Several restaurants, eateries and bed-and-breakfasts are supporting partners that offer food and lodgings to enhance the journey.
Brochures contain maps, and they are available at all the studios, partnering businesses and online.
For complete information, go online to: www.craftsofcolrain.com