BETHEL — More than 40 artists will anchor the Bethel Art Fair, which takes place Saturday, July 7, on the town common
The fair is hosted by S. Timberlake, and other businesses and organizations are hosting events in conjunction to make it a community-wide celebration of the arts.
Events are generally from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there are also some events Friday and Saturday night. The fair ends with fireworks Saturday night.
“We are proud to be returning for a second year as the presenting sponsor of this wonderful event,” Kathryn Steward said of her company’s support of the Bethel Art Fair. “S. Timberlake is known worldwide for handmade Shaker furniture. The traditions of the business have been carried on for years by Ross and Carole Timberlake, including their support for and participation in the Bethel arts community.” S. Timberlake’s line of wood products for the home, often described as “functional art,” will be on display in their “showroom on the common” during the event.
The 2018 Artist of Honor is Dennis Dreher, a sculptor scientist, and inventor working in the media of woven metal wire and glass, creating pieces that “give a message of joy or ecstasy.” His work will be exhibited at The Philbrook Place during the Art Fair. In addition, a special piece will be on display on the town common. Examples of his Dreher’s work may be viewed at www.dennisdreher.com.
Details are available at www.bethelartfair.com. The schedule includes the following events:
FRIDAY, JULY 6
Film & Wine Tasting at The Gem – Featuring “PINA,” a tribute to choreographer Pina Bausch and her celebrated dance troupe. 6-9:30 p.m. 23 Cross St.
Shy, Novice & Closeted Art Show Friday Night Artisans’ Soiree. 7 p.m. 18 High St.
SATURDAY, JULY 7
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the town common: Artists, artisans & food vendors; S. Timberlake’s “Showroom on the Common,” interactive kids’ activities with Bethel Area Arts & Music, live music 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., wagon rides 1:00-3:00 pm.
Around town:
Shy, Novice & Closeted Art Show. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 18 High St.
The Philbrook Place – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Exhibit featuring the 2018 Artist of Honor Dennis Dreher; Elements Art Gallery open featuring 50-plus Maine artists; Student Art Show featuring K-5th grade artwork (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.); chainsaw-carving demo by Ron Carlson. 162 Main St..
Museums of the Bethel Historical Society – timber frame barn-raising, exhibits, tours and museum shop open.
DiCocoa’s Market & Bakery — Make your own bread art, 10 a.m. to noon, 125 Main St. Bethel.
Open house at Maine CoLab — Nabos and Stonetree Creative welcome the public to their new studio. Handmade jewelry, photo booth and mini-classes in this creative space. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 2 Mechanic St.
Maine Mineral & Gem Museum — Explore the preview gallery and museum shop filled with jewelry made by Maine artists. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 99 Main St..
Open Studio at Isham Farm — Meet plein air artists and friends in action at the farm with host Mary Isham. 1006 Vernon St.
Artist Opening and Open Mic Night at The Gem, 6 to 9 p.m. Experience The Gem’s new featured artist, Chris Konopka, a full stack creative technologist specializing in physical computing, web application development and experimental R&D. Local musicians are invited to a community open mic. 23 Cross St.
Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. over The Bethel Inn Resort golf course.
The Bethel Art Fair is organized by the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce with support of S. Timberlake, presenting sponsor; Oxford Federal Credit Union, entertainment sponsor; town of Bethel, tent sponsor; Good Food Store & Catering Company and Smokin’ Good BBQ, supporting sponsors; 22 Broad Street, wagon ride sponsor.
