Historical Society’s American Artisan Show, Nov. 7-8

The Wilton Historical Society will host its annual American Artisan Show on Saturday, Nov. 7 and Sunday, Nov. 8. With over 30 diverse artisans, this show highlights arts, crafts and designs that have been part of fine American handwork since the 18th and 19th centuries.Shaker-style furniture, pottery, kitchen wares, Nantucket-style baskets, pepper mills, hand-woven scarfs and shawls, quilts, rugs, floor cloths, art, tavern signs, soap, jewelry, beautifully crafted cutting boards – plus much more. The show is set in the society’s 18th and 19th century buildings at 224 Danbury Road/ Route 7 in Wilton. Hours are 10 to 5 on Nov. 7 and 10 to 4 on Nov. 8. Admission is $10.The American Artisan Show will kick off with a festive preview and auction on Friday, Nov. 6 from 6 to 9, giving guests the first opportunity to browse and buy while enjoying fine hors d’oeuvres provided by Some Things Fishy Catering of Danbury. The silent auction will feature pieces contributed by the artisans and other generous friends. “All proceeds will directly benefit the Historical Society and its efforts to preserve Wilton’s history” said E. Bulkeley Griswold, president of the Board of Trustees of the Wilton Historical Society. Tickets to the gala are $100. The Preview Party Committee is chaired by Meaghan Donovan, Janet Foster, and Katy Williams, trustees of the society.New this year is Daniel Bellow Porcelain, who says of his work “I try to accentuate the handmade nature of them, throwing them so they show the influence of the wheel and hand and tools, denting them with my fingers. I mix my own glazes, using clays dug up out of the ancient bed of the Housatonic River. These are the pots I want to make, little works of art to sit on people's breakfast table, something beautiful to see each morning.” Another artisan new to the show is painter Kolene Spicher. “I was just knocked out by the work of Kolene Spicher. She is a painter who works in what I can only describe as contemporary “primitive art” – phenomenal! We are thrilled to have her join us” said Craw.New “pop-up” exhibitors are Constance Old: Fiber Works and Diana Chamberlain Ceramics. Constance uses a traditional rug hooking process, but incorporates contemporary materials and printmaking into appealing and timeless wall pieces. Ceramic vases and sculptural objects, made by Diana Chamberlain, are based on timeless subjects such as houses — and even wedding dresses. A selection of crafted canes made by Rich and Judy Colvin of Uncommon Canes will be available as well, adding another dimension of interest for visitors. A complete list of artisans and complete show information can be found at www.americanartisanshow. com .Many community organizations and individuals are supporting the American Artisan Show; these important sponsors include: BMW of Ridgefield; Fairfield County Bank; Granite Group Advisors; Rob Sanders Architects; Servco; TD Bank; Town Vibe Wilton; Wilson Properties; Café Ruche, and the Village Market.Past Wilton Historical Society President Dr. Greg Chann is co-chairing the American Artisan Show, along with trustees Nancy Perez and Joan Starr.

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