The enduring legacy of artisanal craftsmanship takes center stage annually at the venerable League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair, an event that for 92 years has championed the creative spirit of New England. Returning to Mount Sunapee Resort, this celebrated gathering is far more than a mere marketplace; it represents a crucial nexus for artists, patrons, and the preservation of handmade arts within the region’s rich cultural fabric. Organizers emphasize that attendance at this cornerstone New Hampshire craft fair holds greater significance than ever, providing vital support to a thriving community of artisans.
Now in its 92nd iteration, with 61 years hosted at the picturesque Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, the fair stands as a testament to sustained artistic endeavor. This nine-day event provides essential support to hundreds of juried craftspeople across the state, specializing in an extensive array of traditional crafts including woodworking, pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Significantly, the fair generates nearly three-quarters of the League’s annual revenue, making it an indispensable lifeline for many craftsmen, particularly in the wake of substantial cuts to public arts funding.
League Executive Director Kate Saunders underscores the fair’s profound role beyond commerce, characterizing it as a vital component of New Hampshire’s creative ecosystem. Saunders highlights the deep connection between the event and the state’s history and culture, emphasizing that participating visitors contribute to a sustainable cycle by choosing to acquire artisanal exhibitions. This collective engagement ensures the continuity and vibrancy of the local handmade arts community.
From its foundational roots in the Depression era, the League has flourished into a robust network comprising over 700 juried craftspeople. The annual fair, the League’s signature event, has evolved significantly, now featuring more than 300 booths, daily live demonstrations, diverse food vendors, and captivating musical performances. This comprehensive transformation has elevated the fair far beyond a simple craft market, establishing it as a dynamic cultural festival at Mount Sunapee Events.
Visitors of all ages will find a wealth of engaging activities designed to foster creativity and appreciation for craftsmanship. Options include exploring the fair’s meticulously curated Art, Craft & Design exhibition, browsing unique items at the Shop at the Fair, or finding tranquility within a serene sculpture garden nestled amidst the trees. For an expansive view of the festivities and the stunning surroundings, Mount Sunapee Resort’s chairlift operates daily, offering scenic rides to the summit, adding another dimension to the New Hampshire Craft Fair experience.
With free admission for children aged 16 and under, the fair is designed to be family-friendly, offering hands-on maker stations and a creative scavenger hunt to inspire young minds. This year’s event proudly showcases both long-standing and newly juried League members, presenting a compelling blend of fresh talent and familiar craftsmen. Partnering organizations such as the New Hampshire Art Association and the Guild of New Hampshire Woodworkers further enrich the diversity of the art exhibition.
Attendees have the unique opportunity to observe master craftsmen at work, including juried League member Richard Foye demonstrating flame-pattern pottery designs. Diane Louise Paul, a veteran juried member for 25 years, will conduct live demonstrations of her intricate handmade creations, from baskets to sleigh bell straps, utilizing antique tools. Jeweler Anne Behrsing, with over three decades in the fair community, presents her distinct “marriage of metals” technique, while first-time vendor Shannon Wallis introduces pysanky, intricately decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs made with traditional beeswax and dye. These diverse talents highlight the breadth of handmade arts on display.
The continuous evolution and enduring appeal of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair solidify its position as a cornerstone event in the region’s cultural calendar. It remains a vibrant testament to the power of tradition, community, and innovation, ensuring that the legacy of traditional crafts thrives for future generations and reinforces the significance of supporting the creative economy.
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