County Arts hosted their annual Maker’s Hand event in Wellington last weekend. The arts showcase is one of Eastern Ontario’s finest handcraft shows. This year 40 artists, both local and from across Ontario and Western Quebec, were featured in the juried selection.

The show was bustling. County Arts executive director Janna Smith noted the $5 admission, which covered the whole weekend, allowed potential buyers to circle back a day later to make a purchase they might have been mulling over.

“Many of the artists exceeded their sales projections. They said that shoppers tended to buy smaller goods this year, but recognize it was probably a result of the overall economy and world events,” said Ms. Smith.

MEET THE PRESS- Lucy Sterezylo of Stareatjello Paper & Press took part in her second Maker’s Hand event. (Jason Parks/Gazette Staff)

“Artists always praise how well organized the show is, and how wonderful the volunteers are, and this year, many artists commented on how happy and friendly the visitors were.”

Among the local artists was Lucy Sterezylo of Stareatjello Paper & Press. The company uses vintage presses with moveable type, linocuts and the occasional polymer plate to produce thoughtfully designed small-batch greeting cards, art prints, notebooks and other paperworks. Everything is printed exclusively on cotton paper.

This was the second year Stareatjello has been a part of Maker’s Hand. 

“The jury brings in a wonderful selection of artisans and creators so it’s always an honour to be included,” she said.

The papersmith attended both the Wellington Farmer’s Market and the Farmer’s Market at Picton Town Hall this year. 

“I’m a graphic designer and, in stepping away from the computer, I’ve enjoyed the tactile quality and slowness of letterpress printing.” 

In terms of wearable art, Fibre on Fire Felting Collective are four felters from Prince Edward County who share a passion for design and artistry. Working out of their home studios, each member creates unique felted goods and wearables. Carole Falkner, Chris Hall, Debbie Denard and Pauline Dinham united in the fall of 2019. They challenge themselves to create larger, more complex pieces. Some projects expand well beyond home studio spaces.

“When we create some of our larger projects, we rent space at church halls,” said Ms. Hall

The group said Maker’s Hand combines a great venue, great organization through County Arts volunteers and great name recognition to produce a wonderful show they are proud to be a part of.

Fall 2024 will mark the 20th anniversary of Maker’s Hand. Stay tuned for the exciting details.