Local Art Show Attracts
Large Crowd of Artisans

by: Bobby McDonald

Saturday's Texas Heritage Art Show, in the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center, provided a wonderful opportunity for art lovers of almost any medium to view locally produced art and to meet the artists to discuss their work. Some thirty-six local artisans offered a variety of art from woodwork, to oils and acrylics, to metal art, and almost anything in-between. "We encouraged a wide spectrum of exhibitors to allow the public to know how many talented individuals we have in the area," expressed Vickie Lee, one of the organizers of the show. "We had everything from wood carving to beautifully handcrafted quilts, and all of it was beautifully crafted!"

Dr. and Mrs. I.L. Balkcom were among the patrons attending the Texas Heritage Art Show and
made a purchase for their collection, from one of the local artists.

"It was a great beginning," continued Lee. "For the first attempt, many local patrons came out and purchased art work from the exhibitors. I'm excited that the show will continue and we will continue to increase the awareness of local artists in the area."

Ken Vanderburg, a metal artist living north of Sulphur Springs, had
a number of his pieces on exhibit and explained the many steps involved
in fashioning art from "scrap metal," to obtain a work of beauty.

Local Sulphur Springs artist, Nely de Boer discusses her Western art scenes with a local patron
and offers her services as a commissioned artist.

 

Saturday afternoon's offering included, contemporary art, traditional, glass carving, Western art, wood carving, metal art, fiber art, landscapes, handcrafted jewelry, and quilts that have been pieced and designed by the Lone Star Quilters Organization.

Pam Elliott, of Sulphur Springs, right, visits with members of the Lone Star Quilting group about
the many quilts they had on display at Saturday's Texas Heritage Art Show.


Meanwhile, Pam's husband, local artist Mike Elliott, right, was discussing the other aspects of the
show with local artist, Jerry Lee, and his wife, Vickie, who organized the show.

"Certainly, there are some things that we have written down to try for next year, but over-all the show was a great success and we look forward to an even bigger show next year," expressed  Vickie Lee. "It's so great to finally have all of these talented local people gathered in one room!"

The Western oil painting were on display at Saturday's show and were
the work of Sachse, Texas, artist, Edgar J. Sotelo.

Sulphur River Saddlery had a sampling of their many artistically crafted leather products on display, at
Saturday's show.


And, wouldn't you know it, that local patron Treva Watson, found one to "match her outfit!"

"From an artist's perspective, the show was wonderful," exclaimed Mike Elliott, local pen and ink artist. "And, anyone interested in art, in any way, missed a great opportunity, if they didn't come out and view the many talents on display Saturday. I'm looking forward to next year!"

Local woodcrafter, Lannie Filak, had these nice pieces on display at Saturday's show, as he sold
several to local wildlife enthusiasts.

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