Courtesy of Jeff Lysiak at the “Island Sun”:
The Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva is preparing for the 33rd annual Arts & Crafts Fair, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 13 and 14 at The Community House, located at 2173 Periwinkle Way on Sanibel. The event attracts more than 10,000 attendees each year.
The fundraiser, which started as a pancake breakfast with one artist showcasing his work, has grown into the premier arts and crafts showcase in all of Southwest Florida. According to longtime Rotarian Chet Sadler, the fair has grown in popularity almost every year.
“Last year was another recordbreaking year for us,” said Sadler. “It’s the main fundraiser we do for all of the causes that the San-Cap Rotary Club supports throughout the year.”
The fair is a celebration of community, unique arts and crafts from around the country, entertainment, food and displays of both community and charity projects supported by the Rotary Club. The public is invited to attend free of charge, with a suggested $5 donation at the entrance.
With more than 350 artists applying from all across the nation, the selection committee was challenged in choosing the very best for the event.
“We have an excellent reputation of selecting only the top artists and vendors to participate,” added Sadler. “Out of more than 350 applications, only about 110 are accepted to display and sell at the show.”
Participating artists will be offering unique gifts, wearable art, sculptures, paintings, photography, woodworking, painted furniture, jewelry and more. Several local businesses have donated outstanding items for the silent auction including memorabilia, weeklong beachfront stays along with spectacular pieces donated by other artists. A juried committee will also award prizes to the top 2-D, 3-D and Craft submissions.
Inside The Community House, a special display of Guatemalan artwork will be on display and offered for sale. Proceeds from sale will be put towards supporting Rotary Club humanitarian efforts in that country. Additional proceeds from the fair are used to meet community needs, fund local scholarships and for human service needs worldwide.
Outside on The Community House grounds, food vendors will be on hand both days to sell fun and festive fair snacks. In addition to Sanibel Catering Company by Bailey’s, vendors will offer hot dogs, sandwiches, barbeque, hot and cold beverages and sweet treats.
For more information on the San-Cap Rotary Arts & Crafts Fair, call 239-312-3181 or visit www.sanibelartfair.com.
