The Goderich Signal-Star, 1983-09-28, Page 4840.
raftsmen and women
DYLYNDAMI r.S
Very: often local talent and creat.�Vjtt�t ia,taken for granted.
`Those area residents who have visited Seaforth's newest
shop, The Sitting Room, at the Van Egmond House have
expressed surprise when told that all the fine work they see
has been handcrafted by Huron County people.
There are many talented artisans in the area, some of
whom are attempting to earn a living at their craft.
However, most find it difficult to both create and market
their work; some have given up.
With this' in mind, the Van Egmond Foundation with the
help of a Canada Community Development grant sponsored
°°Outreach Artisan". The purpose of this project is the
promotion of Huron County raftsmen and women. It was
felt that the project would be mutually beneficial; that the
combination of history and arts and crafts would attract
more visitors •to the Van Egmond site.
OPENED AT EASTER
The result of several months of research, contacts,
meetings, cleaning, painting and organizing was the
opening on Easter Saturday of The Sitting Room. Gathered
in this unique shop are the collected works of over 30 area
artisans. The quality of workmanship has been most
impressive and the prices have been kept reasonable. The
shop adds only a small percentage to cover promotion and
operating costs. The goal is not profit for the shop but for
the producers.
Visitors to The Sitting Room can choose front a wide
variety of articles including: wood -turned bowls, candle
holders and weed pots; woven skirts and shawls,
placemats, purses; quilted handbags and wall -hangings;
stained glass light -catchers, lanterns and terrariums,
wrought iron candle holders, coat hooks and trivets;
paintings in oils and watercolours and .on barn -board;
stuffed dolls and animals, knitted and `crocheted baby
outfits, sweaters, purses and afghans, photography and
much more.
OTHER OUTLETS
There have also been attempts at off-site marketing.
Several of the artisans now have their work in shops in
Go4erich, Grand .Rend, Port Franks, St. Marys and
Stratford. The crafts people are also most willing to fill
special orders and commissions. Although the project itself
officially ends in November it is hoped, if enough interest
has. been shown, to open the shop again next spring.
During Ciderfest weekend, be sure to visit The Sitting
Room. Several of the artisans will be on hand
demonstrating their skills. Perhaps you will find that
special Christmas gift or a unique momento of Huron
County.
Don't run out of gas on Ciderfest weekend!
•
V:,
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AUTOPRO
CLASS A MECHANIC ON THE PREMISES
Our Services Includes
• Tune-ups
• Oil Changes
• Safety Checks
• Tire Service
• Air Conditioning Service
MUFFLERS ��
BRAKES SHOCKS I GSE
We also carry
PROPANE FUEL for Tanks and Vehicle
SEAFORTH GULF SERVICE
HOURS:
Mon.-Thurs. -7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday - 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday - 9 a.m. 10 p.m.
Management Jim Floyd -and Clair McClure
527-0333 Seaforth
Just east of the lights on the right