Here is a representation of vendors, past and present who have been responsible for the fine reputation the Wild Wind Festival has continually enjoyed through the years. While this list is certainly not comprehensive, they are an example of the quality workmanship you will find at the show.
Carl Frederick Lawrenson
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Our newest featured artist and author is Carl Frederick Lawrenson. He grew up in Susquehenna, PA. Since graduation from Mansfield State College, majoring in art education, he has spent much of his life teaching art and painting in Northern Tioga County, in the mountains of north central PA. He is no stranger to receiving awards in many juried exhibits throughout the country. His painting, "Origins" was selected to the Paint America Top 100 in 2010. This is just one of many awards he has received during his art career. In 2010 he published a children's book that he wrote and illustrated, titled; "Shalock and the Cloud of Bad Dreams" and in 2012 published his second book; "In Search of the Great Wild Kawkins". Both were selected as USA Best Book Award National Finalists. In 2016 he published his first "Coffee Table Book" which contains 56 of his paintings. The majority of his subjects have to do with the unparalleled beauty of nature.
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Mr. Lawrenson's wife, Holly, an artist in her own right, uses the medium of photography. This art form is something she has enjoyed her entire life. She will be a significant addition to the roster of talented artisans who take part in the 2017 Festival. If you are interested in seeing more of the Lawrenson's talent, you can find a wonderful body of work from them both by Googling Asaph Waters Editions.
Moosehead Pottery
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Larry Downey
Rock of Ages Creations
Rock of Ages Creations
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Rock of Ages Creations creates one-of-a-kind works of art on
hand-cut flagstone. Each piece of stone is individually cut to size and then
sculptured to enhance the subject matter
of the lithographic print or photographic image. Using ink binding and emulsive
extraction and adhesive agents, the print images are meticulously separated
from the paper substrate of the lithograph and worked onto the surface of the stone.
The paperless medium placed on the stones surface, flows into all the surface
features of the stone to produce a dimensional and textured perspective that is
not apparent with the lithographic image. When the extraction and adhesion agent
cures, each piece is then sanded around the edges and then hand painted to
create a smooth transition around the perimeter of the stone. Each piece is
then sealed with non-petroleum based polyurethane to protect and preserve the
stones image. The entire process takes five (5) days. Rock of Ages Creations
uses only high quality lithographs from associated artists or those produced by
reputable publishing companies. But, our most popular stone images are made
from our own original art productions and are available only through Rock of
Ages Creations
Margaret Hixson
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I have been painting with acrylics since 1977, and have been drawing since I was a child. My Mom would make up these little booklets of short stories for me to illustrate when I was about four. My Dad wouldn't allow coloring books in the house, because he thought that it would stunt my creativity.
I work from my own photographs, and like to keep a camera in the car. You never know what treasure you'll find. My subjects are landscapes and still lifes, and are of country and nostalgic themes.
There were artists on both sides of my Dad's family. All of my siblings are creative; two being artists, and one a writer. Growing up surrounded by that influence was wonderful for me, I feel very blessed.
Michael Pappa
MP Pinecone Designs
MP Pinecone Designs
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MP Pinecone Designs returns to the Wild Wind Folk Arts & Crafts Festival this year with unique pinecone wreaths & swags, nature-inspired handmade soap & candles, as well as birdhouses with pinecone themed roofs. Everything is handmade, here in the USA. Feel free to stop by for free smells and something natural to decorate for the upcoming holiday season.
Nancy and John Chlpka
Wet Dog Studios
Wet Dog Studios
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Nancy and John have been gourding for over twenty years. It all began when Nancy received one as a gift. Already being artiscially inclined, she was intrigued with the gourd as a medium. Pretty much self-taught early on, she discovered Gourd Societies and the rest is history!
John joined in when he discovered that many wood carving techniques also work on gourds. The pair have participated in festivals, gourd shows, and presentations to garden and art clubs. They teach classes at their shop in Western Pa., and at the Kentucky and Virginia gourd shows.
Their studio was aptly named since dogs play a big role in their lives and, as we all know, "There's Nothing Friendlier Than A Wet Dog!"
MP Pinecone Designs returns to the Wild Wind Folk Arts & Crafts Festival this year with unique pinecone wreaths & swags, nature-inspired handmade soap & candles, as well as birdhouses with pinecone themed roofs. Everything is handmade, here in the USA. Feel free to stop by for free smells and something natural to decorate for the upcoming holiday season.
Denise Mosco, Mary Lou McMullen
Sweetleaf Sisterz
Sweetleaf Sisterz
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Mary Lou McMullen and Denise Mosco are two sisters whose childhood home was on Sweetleaf Drive in Dayton, Ohio. After having careers in the medical field, they established Sweetleaf Sisterz to indulge their passion for jewelry. They are self taught artists but strive to improve their craft and have studied under jewelry artists such as Kim St. Jean, Holly Gage, and Celie Fago.
An appreciation for the sciences is evident in their designs. They love bugs, birds, and anything organic. A vast variety of materials are in their pieces, such as gemstones, glass, pearls, ceramics, and artisan beads, but the focus of their work is their original line in silver, bronze, and copper metal clay. Their jewelry has been showcased in Ohio and Pennsylvania including Boalsburg's People's Choice Art Festival, Art on the Commons in Kettering, Ohio, Octoberfest in Dayton, Ohio, Art in the Wilds in Kane, PA, and many others.
sweetleafsisterz@yahoo.com
www.sweetleafsisterz.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/sweetleafsisterz
An appreciation for the sciences is evident in their designs. They love bugs, birds, and anything organic. A vast variety of materials are in their pieces, such as gemstones, glass, pearls, ceramics, and artisan beads, but the focus of their work is their original line in silver, bronze, and copper metal clay. Their jewelry has been showcased in Ohio and Pennsylvania including Boalsburg's People's Choice Art Festival, Art on the Commons in Kettering, Ohio, Octoberfest in Dayton, Ohio, Art in the Wilds in Kane, PA, and many others.
sweetleafsisterz@yahoo.com
www.sweetleafsisterz.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/sweetleafsisterz
Kimberly M. Hurlburt Linamen
Kimarkcreations
Kimarkcreations
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Kimberly
is native to the Chautauqua Lake Region and works out of her home studio where
she resides with her husband and the youngest of her daughters. While
the majority of her work is sold through on-line outlets and local gift shops,
Kimberly enjoys participating in a couple of choice Art Festivals each
year.
A self-taught artist, Kimberly indicates that she has always had an artistic outlet. Beginning with her early years drawing and painting, transitioning to photography when her daughters were young and now her current day sculpting of one of a kind whimsical characters. Her artwork is influenced by her warm memories of the magic of Santa Claus and whimsical characters of her imagination.
A self-taught artist, Kimberly indicates that she has always had an artistic outlet. Beginning with her early years drawing and painting, transitioning to photography when her daughters were young and now her current day sculpting of one of a kind whimsical characters. Her artwork is influenced by her warm memories of the magic of Santa Claus and whimsical characters of her imagination.
Ruth Lorentzen
Self-taught Folk Artist, Ruth Lorentzen has been professionally
designing, producing and selling her art for over forty years. In
1972, she started her own commercial art business, which consisted of,
but was not limited to, sign painting, illustrating, and designing
logos. Eventually, Ruth phased out the commercial end of the business
and began developing individualized pieces, focusing her talents on
designing and creating. Ruth participates in many retail and trade
shows throughout the country. Her work has been published in “Signs of
the Times” and “Early American Life” and has been displayed in the
American Folk Art Museum in New York. Ruth lives in Connecticut with
her husband, two daughters, son-in-law and her three granddaughters.
Scott Alexander
Alexander Designs
Alexander Designs
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Woodturning allows me to make a physical connection to my pieces unlike any other medium I've worked in. There is something amazing about cutting open a log and seeing the colors and grain patterns, coupled with the earthy smell. It is extremely satisfying to take something that would otherwise end up in the landfill or rotting in the woods and turn it into a beautiful, useful form that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
I am grateful to have grown up in Pennsylvania surrounded by the Allegheny National Forest and believe in honoring the area by being as sustainable as possible. All of my materials are sourced locally, most being storm damaged trees from in and around Warren County. On occasion I am able to procure logs from the Firth Maple Products Company, who practice sustainable forestry with horse logging. None of the logs go to waste. The sections that are not turned into forms become a heat source for my workshop and the shavings are used by local blueberry farms for fertilization, or as bedding for animal coops.
I keep my forms and designs classically clean to allow the natural beauty of the wood to shine. The inspiration for all of my work is drawn from my surroundings. I offer both once turned bowls that have subtle curves and whose final shape is dictated by the material itself. I also offer twice turned bowls that are perfectly round with the foot of the bowl in perfect parallel to the rim. The bulk of my work is created to be used daily for food service but beautiful enough to be on display anywhere.
I am grateful to have grown up in Pennsylvania surrounded by the Allegheny National Forest and believe in honoring the area by being as sustainable as possible. All of my materials are sourced locally, most being storm damaged trees from in and around Warren County. On occasion I am able to procure logs from the Firth Maple Products Company, who practice sustainable forestry with horse logging. None of the logs go to waste. The sections that are not turned into forms become a heat source for my workshop and the shavings are used by local blueberry farms for fertilization, or as bedding for animal coops.
I keep my forms and designs classically clean to allow the natural beauty of the wood to shine. The inspiration for all of my work is drawn from my surroundings. I offer both once turned bowls that have subtle curves and whose final shape is dictated by the material itself. I also offer twice turned bowls that are perfectly round with the foot of the bowl in perfect parallel to the rim. The bulk of my work is created to be used daily for food service but beautiful enough to be on display anywhere.
Nectar Of The Vine
Our wine frappe is our very own creation, recipes which have taken us ten years to develop and perfect. We are involved with the process from the beginning which is coming up with a new delicious flavor, taste testing it to perfection, to the end of the process which is each bag being individually hand wrapped and labeled by us. By taking one bag of our powdered frappe, 1 bottle of dry white wine (chardonnay) and 1 bottle of water you can make our frappe at home. Just mix, freeze, and enjoy without the need of a mixer, blender or ice. Now while the white wine is the original recipe, if you prefer you can spike em the way you like em from wine to moonshine! We love to offer lots of options! European Gourmet Almonds has been to many events with their cinnamon roasted nuts for over 20 years now. We roast them in a copper pot with the deliciousness of cinnamon and sugar. We offer three types of cinnamon roasted nuts which are almonds, cashews and pecans.
Tiffany Kimmet
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My photographs offer a new perspective on every day items. I believe even the simple things have beauty of their own. Ever since I was little, I always wanted to be a photographer. I started exhibiting in art shows about 9 years ago. I had recently went on a trip to Tucson, AZ and fell in love with the doors and all the vibrant colors. When I got home, I wanted to get my pictures printed. The person that ended up printing my pictures invited me to do my first art show in Tiffin, OH. I was so excited! After the first show, I knew I found something that I loved! I love talking with my customers, sharing stories about my photographs (they all have stories), hearing their stories, etc.
I decided to add verses to my photographs about a year after starting the art shows. For a few yeas before that, I had been having some health issues, mainly heart issues. It was during that time period that I discovered my God given talent. One day after a rough patch, I woke up and decided to start adding verses to my pictures. I was so excited about it! I feel the verses complete my pictures and I have learned that the verse is what I was feeling when I took the picture.
About 7 years ago, my husband, Jason, decided to join me. We now exhibit in shows all over the Midwest. He creates and designs all of our products and also does all of the printing. I continue to take photographs and add verses to my pictures. Together, we put our heart and soul into all of our products.
I decided to add verses to my photographs about a year after starting the art shows. For a few yeas before that, I had been having some health issues, mainly heart issues. It was during that time period that I discovered my God given talent. One day after a rough patch, I woke up and decided to start adding verses to my pictures. I was so excited about it! I feel the verses complete my pictures and I have learned that the verse is what I was feeling when I took the picture.
About 7 years ago, my husband, Jason, decided to join me. We now exhibit in shows all over the Midwest. He creates and designs all of our products and also does all of the printing. I continue to take photographs and add verses to my pictures. Together, we put our heart and soul into all of our products.
J & C Workshop
This husband and wife team (John & Christy Mealy) is located in Tionesta, PA. This will be the 4th year of participation. John creates one- of- a-kind band saw boxes from a log or traditional inlay. John works with Ash, Cherry, Hickory, Maple, Oak and Walnut. We encourage everyone from all ages to open the drawers and peek inside; you never know which box has hidden drawers or hidden compartments!
Joy Ingram
Brown Bear Pottery
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My Name is Joy Ingram and I am a maker, a maker of useful things. I started making pots at 9 years old when my mom enrolled me in a wheel throwing class to help channel my energy into something productive (and save her washing machine from the dirt and rocks I always seemed to have in my pockets!) Fascinated with clay and the functionality of the pieces I was making, this first class began a long love affair with this medium that continued through college. I graduated from Ohio University in 1998 with a degree in Organizational Communication and set out to enter the professional world with the pursuit of clay always in the back of my mind. In 2003 an opportunity arose to continue in clay full time and I began an apprenticeship with a master potter and started to slowly transform my hobby into the work I had been dreaming of making since I was 9.
The idea of functional pots stuck with me and almost 20 years after that first class, I opened Brown Bear Pottery with the intention of selling functional pots. I now work full time out of my home studio in Newbury, OH. In 2006 my husband, Zach, joined me in the business. He does anything and everything to help keep me on the wheel longer making pots!
I strive to make pots that are functional first, that feel comfortable in your hands. Pots that invite you to touch and use them. I am blessed to be a maker. To make the coffee cup you use every morning, to make the casserole you make your family macaroni and cheese in every Thursday, to make the baker you make your famous appetizers in for your friends! I am honored to be a small part of each of my customers lives every day.
The idea of functional pots stuck with me and almost 20 years after that first class, I opened Brown Bear Pottery with the intention of selling functional pots. I now work full time out of my home studio in Newbury, OH. In 2006 my husband, Zach, joined me in the business. He does anything and everything to help keep me on the wheel longer making pots!
I strive to make pots that are functional first, that feel comfortable in your hands. Pots that invite you to touch and use them. I am blessed to be a maker. To make the coffee cup you use every morning, to make the casserole you make your family macaroni and cheese in every Thursday, to make the baker you make your famous appetizers in for your friends! I am honored to be a small part of each of my customers lives every day.
Suzy Fiori
Cha Ching Coin Jewelry
Cha Ching Coin Jewelry
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CHA-CHING Coin Jewelry is the brainchild of Suzy Fiori, a Pittsburgher who, several years ago, decided to make a change. Her inspiration came after purchasing a pair of Mercury dime earrings. Motivation followed a few years later when she found herself charmed by change she'd received in the islands, Bahamian starfish pennies.
Soon she began scouring the Universe for exotic and unusual coins and tokens. Before long, Suzy had an extensive collection from around the world.
She lovingly works with the coins, creating distinctive jewelry for discerning customers. In the process, she has been blessed by encounters with fabulous people who, she readily admits, would not have impacted her life otherwise. According to her, that is the important bottom line.
We hope you have the opportunity to meet her and wear her wares. You will be richer for it!
Soon she began scouring the Universe for exotic and unusual coins and tokens. Before long, Suzy had an extensive collection from around the world.
She lovingly works with the coins, creating distinctive jewelry for discerning customers. In the process, she has been blessed by encounters with fabulous people who, she readily admits, would not have impacted her life otherwise. According to her, that is the important bottom line.
We hope you have the opportunity to meet her and wear her wares. You will be richer for it!
RiKa Kantorski
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I've been painting since 2002, but didn't start painting glass until 2004. My husband and I travel to antique malls, estate sales, thrift stores, etc. to find one of a kind items to paint, since retail items are expensive. This allows us to keep our prices reasonable, and it's our way of recycling! I use enamel paint on the glass. Prepping process includes removing all residue from the glass, then wiping it down with alcohol. When the painted item is complete, it sits on a shelf for 30 days to 'cure' by air drying.
Then each item is washed, dried, wrapped and padded for storage until ready for display. All items can be used for their intended purpose, hand wash and dry. Dishwasher not recommended.
Laura Benge
Whimsy Creations
Whimsy Creations
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Born and raised in rural Iowa, artist Laura Benge creates her whimsical folk art from re-purposed wood and driftwood. Her works of art are inspired by what she discovers along river, Lakes and old farm buildings. These are the materials from nature that Laura uses to hand carve and paint her unique designs.
Danette Wightman
DRW Designs and 1 of A Kind Gourds
DRW Designs and 1 of A Kind Gourds
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,I started drawing things in High School. Since then I have had several Mediums that I've worked with. I now craft with gourds. They have become my passion. Each one is it's own piece and I will not copy any thing I create. That gives the customer their very own piece of art. My craft is growing and becoming even more exciting to work with. Hopefully everyone that sees my work will see the time, love and passion I put into each piece, so that they may enjoy and share it in their lives.
Darryl Kotz
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Using traditional blacksmithing techniques, artist blacksmith Darryl Kotz creates heirloom quality functional and artistic works in his forge in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania.
Darryl is a self-taught blacksmith who finds inspiration in nature, the Art Nouveau movement, and by studying the antique ironwork of Europe. He regularly attends regional and national blacksmith meetings where accomplished smiths from around the world share their knowledge and demonstrate advanced techniques of the craft.
Darryl is a member of the Artist Blacksmith Association of North America, The Pennsylvania Artist Blacksmith Association, and he is a Juried Artisan in The Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania.
Darryl is a self-taught blacksmith who finds inspiration in nature, the Art Nouveau movement, and by studying the antique ironwork of Europe. He regularly attends regional and national blacksmith meetings where accomplished smiths from around the world share their knowledge and demonstrate advanced techniques of the craft.
Darryl is a member of the Artist Blacksmith Association of North America, The Pennsylvania Artist Blacksmith Association, and he is a Juried Artisan in The Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania.
Ellen Paquette
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Ellen Paquette is a native of Warren, Pa and a Professional Level Juried Artist of the Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania. Along with earning a BA in Art, she spent time studying anthropology and archaeology. Her skill as a painter has been especially showcased in unique animal portraiture, interior decorative painting and trompe l'oeil projects, spot illustration, and theatrical scenic and costume design. She is also a professional Celtic harpist, volunteer therapeutic harpist for Hospice, nature lover, avid enjoyer of the outdoors, and fabric artist who designs and creates whimsical soft sculpture creatures and art dolls inspired by wildlife, mythology and cryptozoology.
I am most drawn to art that tells a story in its imagery, so in my own work I aim to paint pictures that tell a tale. By combining animal portraiture with the detail and symbolic inclusions found in renaissance art, as well as the whimsy of folklore, I hope to create images that enhance the unique personalities and intelligence of the animals portrayed. I love working my favorite topics into my paintings--animals of many species, folklore, the medieval and renaissance periods of art and history, the natural world, textiles, historic costume, trompe l'oeil techniques, and subtle visual humor.
I am most drawn to art that tells a story in its imagery, so in my own work I aim to paint pictures that tell a tale. By combining animal portraiture with the detail and symbolic inclusions found in renaissance art, as well as the whimsy of folklore, I hope to create images that enhance the unique personalities and intelligence of the animals portrayed. I love working my favorite topics into my paintings--animals of many species, folklore, the medieval and renaissance periods of art and history, the natural world, textiles, historic costume, trompe l'oeil techniques, and subtle visual humor.
Janet Mandel
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The work of nationally recognized artist Janet Mandel reflects her love of all animals and her passion to explore them through her art. Janet uses a detailed technique, which is usually achieved best by watercolor, but occasionally by colored pencil as well. Either technique begins with a detailed drawing, and progresses by laying in the larger areas, then building up layers of values and textures, and is finished with final detailing.
Janet prefers to photograph her wild subjects in the wild, at game preserves, or wildlife sanctuaries. “ The spirit of the animal or the feeling the animal expresses to me is what I become excited about, and want to portray in my work. Sometimes it is a feeling of curiosity, sometimes the power of the animal’s presence, or just an unexplained feeling of kinship that makes me want to rush home and start painting. I guess it’s easier for me to portray the animal if I feel like I "know" him. ”
Regarding her cat portraits, Janet says, “ If you’re an artist and you live with cats, you have to paint them." They provide me with a constant source of new material. Cats have a way of positioning themselves in a ridiculous situation, and then posing for you while they attempt to maintain their dignity. This is when I grab the camera and capture what I can on film. I work partly from my photos, partly from memory, and partly from the live situations I encounter on a daily basis.
Janet’s work includes original paintings, limited and open edition reproductions, as well as embellished reproductions. “ I find that the embellished reproduction is a unique way of adding life, depth and dimension, and sometimes even motion, to my reprints." No print is ever as good as the original, but since I paint living, moving, flying and running creatures, I find that the additional artwork painted onto the mat, (which is called an embellished reproduction), enables me to add some additional life to my reproductions.
Janet prefers to photograph her wild subjects in the wild, at game preserves, or wildlife sanctuaries. “ The spirit of the animal or the feeling the animal expresses to me is what I become excited about, and want to portray in my work. Sometimes it is a feeling of curiosity, sometimes the power of the animal’s presence, or just an unexplained feeling of kinship that makes me want to rush home and start painting. I guess it’s easier for me to portray the animal if I feel like I "know" him. ”
Regarding her cat portraits, Janet says, “ If you’re an artist and you live with cats, you have to paint them." They provide me with a constant source of new material. Cats have a way of positioning themselves in a ridiculous situation, and then posing for you while they attempt to maintain their dignity. This is when I grab the camera and capture what I can on film. I work partly from my photos, partly from memory, and partly from the live situations I encounter on a daily basis.
Janet’s work includes original paintings, limited and open edition reproductions, as well as embellished reproductions. “ I find that the embellished reproduction is a unique way of adding life, depth and dimension, and sometimes even motion, to my reprints." No print is ever as good as the original, but since I paint living, moving, flying and running creatures, I find that the additional artwork painted onto the mat, (which is called an embellished reproduction), enables me to add some additional life to my reproductions.
Josh Miller
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I started wood working at the age of 12 years old in my father’s shop. After working in his shop through grade school and high school I went to college to become a civil engineer. Still dabbling in wood I decided to proceed in my father’s footsteps. I then started my company in my garage utilizing my tools and some of my father’s machines to help build my business. Today I specialize in making solid furniture with features such as dovetail drawers, steam bending and Dutch lapping. I aim for simple lines with quality workmanship. I finish all my furniture with 2-3 coats of a catalyzed lacquer. This helps protect the furniture to allow families to enjoy the beauty of the wood without needing extra protection. The price range for the furniture ranges from $35 to $3,179.
Toni Kelly
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Artist Toni Kelly has always lived in North Western Pennsylvania along the shores of Lake Erie. As a child, Toni was inclined to draw and paint, but her love of drawing and painting nature subjects didn’t come until later in life. After moving into her current home and studio, Toni became an avid gardener and backyard birder, often sketching her flowers and yard birds in journals. This was the beginning of her interest in nature art.
Toni’s art education has been self-directed with independent study, classes and workshops. She learned to paint with watercolor by prominent local instructors with additional study in botanical painting at the Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, PA.
Toni is well known, both regionally and internationally, in the field of Calligraphy and Book Arts having studied under prominent international instructors. In this field she has been published in Bound and Lettered, and contributed to ‘Nice Rendition’ a book of calligraphic works of art accompanying the lyrics of Cheryl Wheeler. As an art blogger Toni was awarded a feature in Artful Blogging magazine in 2009.
Toni began combining calligraphy with her painted images after studying under Randall Hasson while attending an international calligraphy conference. She joined the Audubon Society and started to photograph the birds of Presque Isle State Park as reference for her watercolor paintings and mixed media works of art. Toni now portrays nature related images on canvas painting with oils or acrylics. Birds are her main subjects and at times she places the birds in a still life setting along with books and pottery. She has also experimented with transfer designs created on the computer which are added to her paintings. “Since I work from several photos I use photoshop as a tool to work out composition details when placing birds in a still life environment. Then I make a sketch to work out any other details that need to be done prior to transferring to the canvas. Some shading and feather details are done on the canvas in graphite before I begin to paint.”
Toni’s art education has been self-directed with independent study, classes and workshops. She learned to paint with watercolor by prominent local instructors with additional study in botanical painting at the Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, PA.
Toni is well known, both regionally and internationally, in the field of Calligraphy and Book Arts having studied under prominent international instructors. In this field she has been published in Bound and Lettered, and contributed to ‘Nice Rendition’ a book of calligraphic works of art accompanying the lyrics of Cheryl Wheeler. As an art blogger Toni was awarded a feature in Artful Blogging magazine in 2009.
Toni began combining calligraphy with her painted images after studying under Randall Hasson while attending an international calligraphy conference. She joined the Audubon Society and started to photograph the birds of Presque Isle State Park as reference for her watercolor paintings and mixed media works of art. Toni now portrays nature related images on canvas painting with oils or acrylics. Birds are her main subjects and at times she places the birds in a still life setting along with books and pottery. She has also experimented with transfer designs created on the computer which are added to her paintings. “Since I work from several photos I use photoshop as a tool to work out composition details when placing birds in a still life environment. Then I make a sketch to work out any other details that need to be done prior to transferring to the canvas. Some shading and feather details are done on the canvas in graphite before I begin to paint.”
Kim Kloecker
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I thank God for the gift He has given me to paint His world.
As a young child and teenager I would spend hours, doodling in my notebooks, coloring, cutting, pasting, and creating in hopes of someday being a famous artist. I always looked forward to Christmas when my parents would replenish my art supplies!
I attended Edinboro State College and majored in Art Education K-12. It was during this time my passion for watercolors began to develop. My work encompasses rural country sides, waterfronts, everything else in between, and can be seen in local galleries.
After college and in between raising a family, used my gift as a teacher for special needs children, and as a Christian Youth Director. Art is an excellent tool and a fun way to work, play, and teach others all at the same time!
I have been painting professionally for over 30 years, and have won several “Best of Show”, and top honors in the region. I am a member of the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society, Pennsylvania & National Watercolor Society, and Northwest Pennsylvania Artist Association.
As a young child and teenager I would spend hours, doodling in my notebooks, coloring, cutting, pasting, and creating in hopes of someday being a famous artist. I always looked forward to Christmas when my parents would replenish my art supplies!
I attended Edinboro State College and majored in Art Education K-12. It was during this time my passion for watercolors began to develop. My work encompasses rural country sides, waterfronts, everything else in between, and can be seen in local galleries.
After college and in between raising a family, used my gift as a teacher for special needs children, and as a Christian Youth Director. Art is an excellent tool and a fun way to work, play, and teach others all at the same time!
I have been painting professionally for over 30 years, and have won several “Best of Show”, and top honors in the region. I am a member of the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society, Pennsylvania & National Watercolor Society, and Northwest Pennsylvania Artist Association.
Mary Richie
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Christina Krautz
Splishy Splashy Craft
Splishy Splashy Craft
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Hello my name is Christina Krautz and I am the creator behind Splishy Splash Craft. I have been into all sorts of crafts and arts my entire life. When in high school we moved at the beginning of my Sophomore year. My new school had excellent art classes and I took them all! This is where I first tried my hand at metalsmithing. It ended up being one of my favorite classes but at the time had no means to continue it after high school.
I have been a part of a swim team since the age of 8. While swimming in college I worked at a summer camp and needed a made up camp name, so my new name became Splishy Splash. After college swimming became my career, a full time swim team coach who has taken swimmer to the Olympic Trials. While coaching I took back up metalsmithing at a non profit art school. My father had sudden health issues leading me to leave my coaching job and move across the country to be closer to family. This has made my art of metalsmithing a much larger part of my life.
I have a love of the handmade and antiques both of which have large influences in my style. My silver work all starts as flat sheet and wire and is handcrafted right down to the jump rings. I have been metal smithing for about two and a half years regularly and growing my skills during that time. Which has expanded my work from just silver into also enameling over copper. Splishy Splash Craft has bloomed in the last 6 months and is hopefully bringing beauty into peoples lives that they can cherish for a lifetime.
I have been a part of a swim team since the age of 8. While swimming in college I worked at a summer camp and needed a made up camp name, so my new name became Splishy Splash. After college swimming became my career, a full time swim team coach who has taken swimmer to the Olympic Trials. While coaching I took back up metalsmithing at a non profit art school. My father had sudden health issues leading me to leave my coaching job and move across the country to be closer to family. This has made my art of metalsmithing a much larger part of my life.
I have a love of the handmade and antiques both of which have large influences in my style. My silver work all starts as flat sheet and wire and is handcrafted right down to the jump rings. I have been metal smithing for about two and a half years regularly and growing my skills during that time. Which has expanded my work from just silver into also enameling over copper. Splishy Splash Craft has bloomed in the last 6 months and is hopefully bringing beauty into peoples lives that they can cherish for a lifetime.
Amanda O'Neil
Manda's Menagerie
Manda's Menagerie
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I’ve always loved to repurpose things, and started making glass flowers a couple of years ago. My flowers are drilled through and bolted to the stem, and the “leaves” are a variety of kitchen utensils which are welded onto the stem by my husband. The flowers can be left outside year round or can be easily taken off of the stem and displayed inside on a plate stand. They do excellent in sun or shade and never need watered! The bird feeders are also drilled through and, like the flowers, are very sparkly. I thoroughly enjoy making each one of these and I really love the thought of other people getting enjoyment out of them. Even my two boys, Cooper and Gage, like to mix and match different plates and bowls together to come up with new flowers. For years we have loved shopping at the Wild Wind show and now we are very excited to be a first time vendor at it! See you there!
Wade Rose
Got Wind
Got Wind
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When I retired I decided I would begin to complete my ‘To Do’ list. One of my challenges on this list was making a wind chime for my wife. As I began to learn and develop the techniques for my project I soon learned I really enjoyed making my first chime.
Spending my working life as a carpenter and working with wood I found working with metals a nice new beginning. However, when I began to make my next chimes I soon found myself shopping flea markets, antique shops, Goodwills, and Restores which started me using unwanted items as imaginary and unique tops for the chimes. I continued to make more chimes for my family members each chime helped me create chimes that are both beautiful to view and listen to as well.
The first chime I sold actually was a trade for five tons of slag. Then I started to show at festivals and began selling my chimes with about sixty-five percent of sales from repeat buyers. My chimes have been bought for remembrances of loved ones pasted, new homes, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and of course many of our customers just want brighten up their yards and gardens.
This is the story of the ‘Got Wind’ chime. If you happen to hear us at a show stop by for a listen we are always glad to meet new friends.
Spending my working life as a carpenter and working with wood I found working with metals a nice new beginning. However, when I began to make my next chimes I soon found myself shopping flea markets, antique shops, Goodwills, and Restores which started me using unwanted items as imaginary and unique tops for the chimes. I continued to make more chimes for my family members each chime helped me create chimes that are both beautiful to view and listen to as well.
The first chime I sold actually was a trade for five tons of slag. Then I started to show at festivals and began selling my chimes with about sixty-five percent of sales from repeat buyers. My chimes have been bought for remembrances of loved ones pasted, new homes, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and of course many of our customers just want brighten up their yards and gardens.
This is the story of the ‘Got Wind’ chime. If you happen to hear us at a show stop by for a listen we are always glad to meet new friends.
Beth Ann Faulk
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My love of creating started at an early age. I took art lessons in grade school from the local convent. Those lessons got my creative ball rolling. I painted for enjoyment in those early years. After I got married and had 2 children, I started my art business.
I travel to several shows throughout the year selling my works. I also have items available at The Elk Viewing Center in Benezette, Pa. One of my most popular items is my painted turkey feathers. I also have custom made signs, watercolors and ornaments. During the school year, I offer art lessons to children. My studio is located in Brockway, Pa.
I travel to several shows throughout the year selling my works. I also have items available at The Elk Viewing Center in Benezette, Pa. One of my most popular items is my painted turkey feathers. I also have custom made signs, watercolors and ornaments. During the school year, I offer art lessons to children. My studio is located in Brockway, Pa.
Deborah Florian
VasePlace/ReCreationsByDeb
VasePlace/ReCreationsByDeb
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In 2000 a leap-of-faith took me out of the world of health care as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist and into the world of creative expression and the building of my own business. I retired from my professional work to be able to help my daughter and her family through a difficult time as my son-in-law fought a courageous battle with cancer.
Worried and stressed, I began to find comfort in my connection with the natural world through flower gardening. I was graced with peace through the process of creating with my hands. VasePlace was born with Mother Earth as my mid-wife.
My glass suction vases and terrariums allow the beauty, peace, and calm of the natural world to be enjoyed in our indoor environments. I craft with wire, beads, found objects and jewelry techniques creating many different styles and themes on the vases. I hand color many of the pieces used. I grow and preserve the plant material used for my displays and for the creation of dried botanical bouquets.
Worried and stressed, I began to find comfort in my connection with the natural world through flower gardening. I was graced with peace through the process of creating with my hands. VasePlace was born with Mother Earth as my mid-wife.
My glass suction vases and terrariums allow the beauty, peace, and calm of the natural world to be enjoyed in our indoor environments. I craft with wire, beads, found objects and jewelry techniques creating many different styles and themes on the vases. I hand color many of the pieces used. I grow and preserve the plant material used for my displays and for the creation of dried botanical bouquets.
April Cox
Tupelo Acres LLC
Tupelo Acres LLC
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April Cox of Tupleo Acres LLC (www.tupeloacres.com) is making products that is truly a field to fashion creative process. She has owed and raised alpacas for the past 7 years, creating handcrafted fiber products using alpaca fibers from her home herd. Her unique set of products range in methods from wet felting, needle felting, crochet, dye work, and spinning. Her specialty being in hand felted hats using custom designs for the everyday wear and eclectic daring customer. April Cox also teaches classes in the fiber arts.
Rick Butler
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Most of Santa's elves are located at the North Pole, but one of them lives and works in New York. The workshop of Nancy and Rick Butler is full of lumber, woodworking tools, sawdust, and wooden toys in all stages of construction. There is a selection of toy trucks, trains, pull toys, animal trucks, cars, and more. All toys are made of hardwood. Rick has always enjoyed working with wood and started going to craft fairs to share his handiwork. He has been going to Wild Wind for roughly 30 years. It's a great hobby, and he hopes all the kids enjoy their toys for years after they receive them.
Amy Solomon
Amy Made
Amy Made
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My name is Amy and I am a fine artist, illustrator and crafter. I am the creator behind Amy * Made, a unique place where you can find personalized hand stamped metal jewelry, boho style crochet accessories and vintage inspired accessories.
Originally from Russell PA, I grew up attending the Wild Wind Festival as a child. I am honored to be a selected artist to showcase my work and share my handmade pieces with the community.
My jewelry work is expanding into the world of ceramics. From earrings to pendants with various colors, designs and textures, the new work is an exploration of clay.
My crochet work includes a variety of hat styles, cowls and gloves as which are adorned with my signature three tiered flowers. I design all my own patterns for my pieces and welcome the chance to have you wear one of my unique artistic garments.
My metal work is all hand cut, stamped and designed with my own two hands with much love and care. Each piece can be personalized with a variety of names, dates and quotes. I work in various metals and create a wide variety of charms, necklaces, earrings and metal cuffs.
Each and every piece of my work can be customized, from the hand stamped metal work to the custom wood buttons that are hand made from sticks and branches, I hope I have the chance to design for you.
For as long as I can remember, I have been a maker. Nothing gives me more joy than to create with a captive audience.
Originally from Russell PA, I grew up attending the Wild Wind Festival as a child. I am honored to be a selected artist to showcase my work and share my handmade pieces with the community.
My jewelry work is expanding into the world of ceramics. From earrings to pendants with various colors, designs and textures, the new work is an exploration of clay.
My crochet work includes a variety of hat styles, cowls and gloves as which are adorned with my signature three tiered flowers. I design all my own patterns for my pieces and welcome the chance to have you wear one of my unique artistic garments.
My metal work is all hand cut, stamped and designed with my own two hands with much love and care. Each piece can be personalized with a variety of names, dates and quotes. I work in various metals and create a wide variety of charms, necklaces, earrings and metal cuffs.
Each and every piece of my work can be customized, from the hand stamped metal work to the custom wood buttons that are hand made from sticks and branches, I hope I have the chance to design for you.
For as long as I can remember, I have been a maker. Nothing gives me more joy than to create with a captive audience.
Jessica Porter
Weaving from the Heart
Weaving from the Heart
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Creating pieces that are symbolic of beauty and meaning. This is my passion to share with others what I see and feel in this world around us. There is always a red thread in the center of each piece I create. This symbolizes love, love is the center of all things, and I create each piece with love! I also create, from one of the keyforms, Goddess Dolls. These dolls hold space of love, beauty, and Goddess energy for women and girls, as a reminder of what is with themselves.
A few years ago at a Reiki Retreat, I was introduced to Weaving a Life and fell in love with that. Felt this calling to both work with these 7 keyforms and teach this to others, to explore the inner self. These seven keyforms ring a sense of healing, truth, love, and self-discovery into one’s life. This has also allowed my intuitive creativity to flow and create beauty with fiber art. I received my training as a Weaving a Life Circle Leader and Story Loom Leader. From there my personal creativity flowed to create these pieces that told a story of what I saw in nature, what came to me as I read a story, intuitively came to me, or what I was experiencing.
A few years ago at a Reiki Retreat, I was introduced to Weaving a Life and fell in love with that. Felt this calling to both work with these 7 keyforms and teach this to others, to explore the inner self. These seven keyforms ring a sense of healing, truth, love, and self-discovery into one’s life. This has also allowed my intuitive creativity to flow and create beauty with fiber art. I received my training as a Weaving a Life Circle Leader and Story Loom Leader. From there my personal creativity flowed to create these pieces that told a story of what I saw in nature, what came to me as I read a story, intuitively came to me, or what I was experiencing.
Arlene Sofranko
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She is an inspired artist who creates unusual pottery pieces. Not making more than two of any item for the year. Plus using different textures, appliques and vibrant color glazes on each piece.
Pottery became a passion for her 13 years ago. When she joined a studio and learned the trade as an apprentice under a Master Ceramist. This studio had a gallery open to the pubic for sales.
She then opened her own studio in Tidioute, Pa. where she has been making creative design pieces for over eight years. Occasionally accepting students for private lessons to learn the art of pottery.
Arlene has been recognized by numerous organizations for her pottery creativity. Her creative pottery designs have been given as 1st place awards at numerous events.
All of her creations are food safe, microwavable , dishwasher safe and oven safe.
All items are either created on the wheel which are altered or hand built for more unique and original design creations.
Examples of her creations are FAIRY HOUSES WITH ELECTRIC, LOTUS BOWLS, ILLUMINATED OWLS ON LEAF, FLOWER VASES, LARGE LEAVES WITH GRAPE VINES, A SPECIAL VERY UNIQUE BOWL MADE WITH 100 PCS OF UNIQUE FLOWERS, HANGING BASKETS LIGHTED ANGLES, BUTTER DISHES, HAND BUILT CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY PLATE WHICH IS ALWAYS IN DEMAND WITH ONLY ONE OR TWO MADE A YEAR just to mention a few of her creative items.
She is a true pottery artist. Her created pottery pieces are made from a slab of clay. She transforms the clay into functional pieces of pottery. In addition to the above mentioned items she also designs. Stingrays, Seahorses, Various Fish Forms with scales and fins, an Alligator with three or six sections, pitchers, tray servers, spaghetti servers and more. She uses a combination of vibrant glazes to create one of a kind pottery pieces.
Creations take about 10 days or more to dry. Then they are bisque fired in a kiln of 1941 degrees for 18 hours. After they cool the item is glazed three times. Then glaze fired at 2170 degrees for eight hours.
In addition to creating pottery. Arlene also designs and creates hand crafted crocheted silver, gold or copper jewelry necklaces, bracelets and ankle bracelets. Using in her designs with Imperial Jasper, Turquoise, Tiger Skin Jasper, Tiger eye , Lapis and Swarovski crystal to mention only a few of her materials used to create thejewelry pieces.
The greatest joy Arlene receives is when a customer tells her they love her creative piece when they purchase it at the Wild Winds Folk Art & Craft Festival at Warren County Fair Grounds. Which is the only show Arlene exhibits her pottery for sale during the year, or you can email her at asofranko@earthlink.net
Pottery became a passion for her 13 years ago. When she joined a studio and learned the trade as an apprentice under a Master Ceramist. This studio had a gallery open to the pubic for sales.
She then opened her own studio in Tidioute, Pa. where she has been making creative design pieces for over eight years. Occasionally accepting students for private lessons to learn the art of pottery.
Arlene has been recognized by numerous organizations for her pottery creativity. Her creative pottery designs have been given as 1st place awards at numerous events.
All of her creations are food safe, microwavable , dishwasher safe and oven safe.
All items are either created on the wheel which are altered or hand built for more unique and original design creations.
Examples of her creations are FAIRY HOUSES WITH ELECTRIC, LOTUS BOWLS, ILLUMINATED OWLS ON LEAF, FLOWER VASES, LARGE LEAVES WITH GRAPE VINES, A SPECIAL VERY UNIQUE BOWL MADE WITH 100 PCS OF UNIQUE FLOWERS, HANGING BASKETS LIGHTED ANGLES, BUTTER DISHES, HAND BUILT CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY PLATE WHICH IS ALWAYS IN DEMAND WITH ONLY ONE OR TWO MADE A YEAR just to mention a few of her creative items.
She is a true pottery artist. Her created pottery pieces are made from a slab of clay. She transforms the clay into functional pieces of pottery. In addition to the above mentioned items she also designs. Stingrays, Seahorses, Various Fish Forms with scales and fins, an Alligator with three or six sections, pitchers, tray servers, spaghetti servers and more. She uses a combination of vibrant glazes to create one of a kind pottery pieces.
Creations take about 10 days or more to dry. Then they are bisque fired in a kiln of 1941 degrees for 18 hours. After they cool the item is glazed three times. Then glaze fired at 2170 degrees for eight hours.
In addition to creating pottery. Arlene also designs and creates hand crafted crocheted silver, gold or copper jewelry necklaces, bracelets and ankle bracelets. Using in her designs with Imperial Jasper, Turquoise, Tiger Skin Jasper, Tiger eye , Lapis and Swarovski crystal to mention only a few of her materials used to create thejewelry pieces.
The greatest joy Arlene receives is when a customer tells her they love her creative piece when they purchase it at the Wild Winds Folk Art & Craft Festival at Warren County Fair Grounds. Which is the only show Arlene exhibits her pottery for sale during the year, or you can email her at asofranko@earthlink.net
Wendy Mosbacher
Designs in Polymer Clay
Designs in Polymer Clay
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I am a self taught polymer clay artist from Meadville Pa.
My art is a little weird, very whimsical and a lot of fun! I like to create art that will make you smile and I think I accomplish that with my steampunk animals sitting on boxes, little old ladies crawling out of sugar bowls and elfin mermaids lounging on driftwood, you will also find journals and art books with wonderful textured art on them , and so much more!
I am looking forward to being a part of Wild Wind Folk Art Festival, and to making people smile.
My art is a little weird, very whimsical and a lot of fun! I like to create art that will make you smile and I think I accomplish that with my steampunk animals sitting on boxes, little old ladies crawling out of sugar bowls and elfin mermaids lounging on driftwood, you will also find journals and art books with wonderful textured art on them , and so much more!
I am looking forward to being a part of Wild Wind Folk Art Festival, and to making people smile.
