René Trim’s Arts and Crafts: A look ahead at August events

When it comes to art and craft shows, August is certainly not the busiest month of the year but, nonetheless, here are a few gems that are definitely worth a visit: ** Merrickville Canalfest ** Merrickville’s annual celebration of the Rideau Canal (organized by the town’s Lions Club) is taking place this long weekend, so get ready for 3 days of live entertainment, activities for young and old, a craft show and sale, free Voyageur canoe rides (with authentically dressed voyageurs) and much more! Celebrate the rich history of the Canal and the village of Merrickville/Wolford Saturday 1, Sunday and Monday 3 August from 10 am daily. ** Dragonfly Studio @ OZ Kafe ** Jacquelyn Trowell of Dragonfly Studio is an artist who creates one-of-a-kind art using pencil, charcoal, watercolor, pastels, acrylic or oil paint. Her first ever solo show opens on August 9th with a vernissage/reception (8 pm to 11 pm) at OZ Kafe, 361 Elgin St. The exhibition runs until September 13th. For more information, please visit dragonflystudio.ca ** Merrickville Antique and Artisan Show ** The Merrickville Antique Show and Artisan Show returns to the village fairgrounds, located at 106 Read St. on August 22 and 23 for its 23rd edition. The antique show features many antique dealers from both Ontario and Quebec and features such items as furniture, folk art, glass, china, books and much more. Admission to the antique show includes a ticket to the artisan show so you’ll get to see 2 great shows for the price of 1 – and parking is free! For more information, please visit antique-shows.ca/jewel.html ** Bells Corners Market Fundraiser ** The Bells Corners Market Fundraiser (Saturday 22 August) is all about Lucas, a 3 ½ year old in desperate need of treatment for autism. The event includes a yard sale of donated items as well as a art & craft market consisting of – thus far – 32 vendors. All proceeds of the yard sale as well as those of the table fee vendors pay to participate in the event will go to “Life of Lucas”. Please note: this is a rain or shine event: if the weather is fair, it will take place in the Loblaw’s parking lot on Robertson Road, whereas the Maple Hill Farm on Moodie Drive will be the venue of the day in the case of rain.

That’s all for now, folks, have a creative week and don’t forget to support local!