René Trim's Arts & Crafts: Massive summer craft show at Kanata Target location

Two local show organizers,  Creative Creations Events (Carleton Place) and the OVCC (Ottawa) have joined forces to create one of the largest summer craft shows the city has ever seen.  Scheduled for July 25 and 26, the event - entitled “HOMEmade Sizzle” - will be held at a location where one would normally not expect to find local artisans and crafters: the former “Target” store at the Hazeldean Mall in Kanata. Last Friday, Creative Creations approached the OVCC with a proposal to team up for this event that will showcase the work of well over 100 artists, artisans and crafters - all local! According to the news release (see below), which will be distributed tomorrow,  both organizing parties felt that rather than competing, they could organize a much stronger event to showcase the creativity of the city by working together.  The location was chosen for its accessibility, ample free parking and - of course - the fact that no  matter what July throws at us weather-wise, it’ll be cool and dry inside!

Truth be told, the idea of organizing a craft show inside a former big box store - craft shows' public enemy #1 - did trigger a stifled chuckle or two with this show organizer. Mark the dates, folks - July 25 and 26 - more details to follow in next week’s column!

Here is my selection of upcoming events: ** MAY 23 - ARTS CARLETON PLACE ** Celebrate arts and heritage on Edmund Street. May 23 from 10 am to 4 pm at St. James Parish Hall, 225 Edmund Street, Carleton Place. Free event. ** MAY 23 - ART JOURNEY SMITHS FALLS ** Art Journey Spring show and sale. May 23 from 10 am to 5 pm at the Smiths Falls Community Centre, 71 Cornelia Street. ** MAY 23 - C.A.B. EXPO ** Crafters, Artisans and Business Expo at the Blackburn Hamlet Community Centre and Park, 190 Glen Park Drive, Blakcburn Hamlet on May 23 from 10 am to 5 pm (please note: rain date May 24th - same opening hours).Free event. ** MAY 24 - RAVENSWING ARTS + MUSIC FAIR ** Celebrating creativity in the Nation’s Capital! May 24 from 11 am to 5 pm at Mintopark Ottawa. Free event.

** May 27 - AFTER STONEWALL ** Meet the artist event at art gallery and book store After Stonewall,  370 Bank Street (starting at 6 pm), with abstract painters Ryan O’Neill and Rene Rivard. ** MAY 27 - METAMORPHOSIS ECO FASHION SHOW ** A new initiative in Ottawa that highlights EcoEquitable/local designers, that are using recycled materials and upcycle clothes. May 27 – Doors open 6 pm for a silent auction / fashion show starts at 7 pm – Wabano Centre, 299 Montreal Road, Ottawa. Admission $20.

That’s it for now - have a creative week and don’t forget to support local!