Press Release by John Lullo

Local volunteer Nancy Degger after putting up the Art Faire banner at the Graeagle Fire Hall. Photo by John Lullo.The records show that in 1980, about 43 years ago, Leah West and Beth Reid organized the first “Christmas Faire.” It was the beginning of the Mohawk Valley Artists Guild. The forthcoming Mohawk Community Art Faire (MCAF) is a direct descendant of this holiday tradition.

As usual, the MCAF will be held on the two days following Thanksgiving: the 24th and 25th of November. The Mohawk Community Resource Center (MCRC) in Blairsden sponsors the event. Entry fees, on-site raffles, and cookie sales help support this important community gathering place. There will be 18 artists offering their creations for sale. The venue is the Graeagle Fire Hall, 7620 Highway 89, in downtown Graeagle. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Visitors will see a wonderful selection of hand-crafted art, including jewelry, wood art, photography, knitted and crocheted items, paint on canvas, ceramics, carved stones, and a lot more. This year, Aurora Wellise, a new artist from the Sierra Valley, will offer flower essences, tinctures, and elixirs. She calls her booth ”Lawless Botanics.” Another first-timer is Michael Rowden, a local artist whose paintings are currently featured on the walls of the MCRC. There will be something for everyone on your gift list: an opportunity to get Christmas shopping done early.

The mission statement of the MCRC reads as follows: The Mohawk Community Resource Center serves to enrich the lives of residents and visitors of the surrounding communities in a friendly atmosphere. Proceeds from the MCAF are a major factor in the achievement of this mission.

Additional information about the Faire or how to become a volunteer with the MCRC is available by calling the Resource Center at 530-293-7172 or by emailing

mcrc96103@gmail.com.