Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Artist's Review of 24th Annual FIREFLY ART FAIR - Wauwatosa, WI

Photo of Victorian Gardens at the 24th Annual FIREFLY ART FAIR...Just beautiful!

This past weekend, August 7th and 8th, I was exhibiting at the FIREFLY ART FAIR in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.  I've been doing this show for about 8 years, and it still remains my "all time favorite show"!  The grounds are just gorgeous, the environment and vibes at this show are so delightful.  This show attracts a lot of knowlegeable art buyers, which makes for a fun and enjoyable experience for both the customers and artists alike.

I just had a "feeling" this was going to be a great weekend, when I got up Saturday at 5 a.m. to get ready for the show, and when I read my horoscope it said, "you will be surrounded with a flurry of activity today, and you will feel like you are in the clouds"!  Well, that was so true!!  Both my sister and I were on "cloud 9" all day Saturday, as it was beautiful weather, the crowds were good, and people were buying.  Much to my delight I sold $350.00 in the first 1.5 hours of the show, and sales continued all day long!  What a difference from my first 3 art shows this season, where I didn't even make my expenses.

Since I didn't have time to walk the show and talk to as many artists as I normally do, it was hard to get a feeling as to how other artists were doing as far as sales.  I did, however, get several photos of some of the artists across from me, and next to my booth.

Colorful, gorgeous,handpainted windows
by Artist, Dawn Eve Harzheim

I noticed this artist's colorful creations as we were setting up for the show.  Her handpainted glass windows were just beautiful, and full of color!


I just might have to find a place in my home for one of these "windows"!  The colors and detail are wonderful!

If you are interested in find out more about Dawn's artwork, you may reach her at: dawneve9@sbcglobal.net


The next artist, who's booth was across from me, was a metal sculpture artist, who as you can see from the photos below, creates very whimsical, unique creations from different pieces of metal.  He also had tiny little creatures made from spoons, etc.  I always find it fascinating to see what other creative minds come up with. 

Now isn't that an unusual creature!

Artist at work!  Looks like a "spider" is being born!


The FIREFLY ART FAIR is held on the beautiful grounds of the historical "Kneeland Walker House in Wauwatosa, WI.  Tours may be taken of the home when the art show is on.  I'm not sure if it is open for tours at other times.  The FIREFLY ART FAIR is run by the Wauwatosa Historical Society and the people are very delightful to work with and it is a well run show.  The show has good food available, musical entertainment, a silient auction, popcorn wagon, and they also have food for the artists after the show on Saturday, and a coffee, donuts and juice on Sunday morning.

Partial back view of the Kneeland Walker House, with people coming in where the red umbrella is. 

Tables are set up in the center of the gardens so people may sit, eat and enjoy the flowers and scenery.

A portion of the flowers in the garden.  Below are several photos I took of the flowers you see in the right hand section of the above photo.  I can't remember the name of the flowers.  They were exquisite!

Does anyone know what kind these are.  I think it started with an "L", but not sure!


Below is another artist and I've also included her web page link if you are interested in seeing more of her work.  I wish I would have gotten some closeup shots of her work, but I didn't want to leave my booth for long.

EARTH BOUND Fine Art by Dara Chappie
Visit her website to learn more:  http://darachappie.com/


A section of my display.  All the fairies are enjoy the fine day at the FIREFLY!

To sum it up, the 24th Annual FIREFLY ART FAIR was again a great show, even though it rained Sunday morning and we didn't get to set up and start selling until about noon!  The sun came out and I had another profitable day. I is always such fun meeting and talking with previous customers, meeting new ones!

My next show is this coming weekend in Lake Geneva, WI - August, 14th and 15th - ART IN THE PARK.  This show is sponsored by the GENEVA LAKE ART ASSOCIATION.  The hours are 10:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. SATURDAY, and 10:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. SUNDAY.  It is being held overlooking the lake in Flat Iron Park, which is right near the downtown area of Lake Geneva.


If you live in the area, be sure to stop by for a visit.

6 comments:

Yael said...

Beautiful photos of a lovely day Donna! But I missed one with you and your sister!!!! :-)

DZFANTASY said...

Thanks for your comment, Yael. We were too busy...which was GOOD! Next time!

Hope all is well in your world!

Clothmatters said...

Hi Donna- Thanks for joining the CDA Blog Hops!

Connie

angiesraggedypatch said...

Just out blog hoppin with CDA and wanted to say hi!
hugs~
angie

Erica Lea said...

Been too long since I've done some blog-visiting! Had to come over here - I enjoy your reviews, and your booth is so well-done and lovely:-) I also wanted to add that the pretty flowers are Lisianthus.

DZFANTASY said...

Thanks for stopping by Erica...and for the comment on my booth. Also, thanks for letting me know the name of those flowers! I thought they were so beautiful