Cape Breton artist Gordon Kennedy’s metal work, like this one titled Forest Circle, will part of the Artisans’ Crafts Showcase Nov. 5 at the Maritime Inn’s function room. (Submitted photo)

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Artisan/jeweler Clare Bridge sees organizational potential for those who share her passion.
“I think Antigonish is a gem, that’s why my husband and I moved here, and I think the area could support a guild… a fine crafts guild,” Bridge said.
“What I see in the area is that there is a gathering or organization for the fine arts but I don’t see one for the fine crafts.”
Hoping to kick-start a possible new guild, Bridge has organized an Artisans’ Crafts Showcase which will take place Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Maritime Inn’s function room, in downtown Antigonish.
“My idea for the show was introducing new faces who haven’t been at all the shops or the farmers’ markets yet,” Bridge said.
“And, with that in mind, trying to establish a guild in this area.”
She said she originally tried to put together a show for late July but that didn’t work out.
She points out, however, there are a lot of advantages to the Nov. 5 date.
“It’s a great time,” Bridge said. “It’s before the bad weather hits, people are thinking about the holidays and buying and it also gives the artisan enough time if someone said ‘gee, I love that scarf but I would like it a little longer and a different colour.’ There is enough time to build a piece for a special order.”
Bridge envisions, with the formation of a guild, the possibility of two shows spread out during the year. She talked about other advantages a guild would provide.
“A guild is an incredible resource, promoting inspiration, networking and camaraderie. All important elements for fellow artisans,” Bridge said.
One of the groups who will be set-up for the November show is L’Arche Antigonish and artists from their Hearts and Hands program.
Bridge described their work as “phenomenal” and is thrilled to have them as part of the show.
With Hearts and Hands, L’Arche artists create paintings, art cards and calendars, stepping stones, photography, homemade paper and woven bookmarks.
Other artists include Antigonish native Christopher Doiron who holds a diploma in fine craft – ceramics from the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design.
Mabou artist Ann Schroeder will be showing and selling from her fine arts quilts collection inspired by Cape Breton landscape, weather and music.
Schroeder is also known for dyed silk and cotton scarves and unique t-shirts.
Fellow Cape Breton artist Gordon Kennedy is a metal sculptor. He will be on-hand with his “critically acclaimed” collection.
“It’s a wonderful start to your holiday buying featuring textiles, photography, iron, ceramics and jewelry,” Bridge said.