New area features artisans working their craft at festival

Of course everyone loves shopping at Frankfort Fall Festival, picking up that unique, hand-crafted birthday or holiday present for someone special, or that unique item for your home. But have you ever wondered what it takes for these artisans to actually create these specialty items? This year, the Festival has dedicated a new area where select artisans will be demonstrating their crafts for visitors. This demonstration area will be located on the east side of the entertainment stage, on a grassy area near the shade tents, just north of Kansas Street.

Applicants were asked if they would be willing to demonstrate their craft at Frankfort Fall Festival.

“I reviewed those artisans who were interested in sharing their interesting stories and crafts to our visitors,” explained Frankfort Fall Festival chair Cindy Heath. “These artisans have an exhibit booth, but also have open space on each side so visitors can actually see what is being created,” she added.

Artisans stationed at the demonstration areas include:

Jeffrey Jobe, of Barking Dog Jewelry Design Studio, who creates traditional hand-forged silver and gold jewelry using antique tools handed down through generations of silversmiths. Jobe travels from North Carolina to bring his jewelry to Frankfort Fall Festival, and is always eager to explain why his business name refers to a barking dog.

Nick Galati, of Monee, owner of Fire Cut Glass, will be hand-blowing glass hummingbird feeders,ornaments, sea sculptures, and other glass items.

Melissa Monroe, of Mokena, is a ceramic artist who will be throwing pottery using a wheel. Her

business, Melissa Z Monroe Pottery, features plates, vases, and other pieces inspired by nature.

Branson Bennett, of West Allis, Wisc., will be creating handmade leather purses, backpacks, cell cases, and unique leather goods.

Caricature artists, Lucy and Paul Lu, of Lombard, will sketch portraits. In addition, they can write your name on a grain of rice, and offer name paintings.

Back by popular demand, Michigan artist Ben Knapp will demonstrate his popular backyard Big Birdie Golf game. Knapp created this family-friendly game which is a combination of golf chipping and the bean bag toss.

“I’m so excited to watch these artisans at work,” Heath said. “I think it brings a new dimension to Frankfort Fall Festival, and I know our visitors will be impressed by the quality, crafts, and presentations of this new area,” she said.

Provided by Frankfort Chamber of Commerce