Arts and Crafts at Best of the West Weekend

Painting on buffalo skull (Paintings by Bernadette)

Janet Barkwith, Best of the West

The Best of the West Weekend is really proud to say that this year our trade show booths are entirely filled with Western artisans and craftsmen whose brilliantly creative minds have designed their unique products, and whose gifted hands have made those designs come to life for you to marvel at. All the beautiful one-of-a-kind items on display will be for sale so that you may take home and proudly use or display an exclusive souvenir of your time at the Best of the West Weekend 2014.

Vests and wild rags by Creekside Clothing

Every artisan represented at the event will be on hand to talk with you about their art and craftsmanship. Don't be afraid to ask about any item that catches your eye: each piece will have a unique story to be told, such as what was the inspiration for the piece; how it was made; what it was made from and why. All this adds to the understanding of your purchase, and learning a little bit about it from its designer and maker will surely increase its value to you - or if it is to be a gift, to its recipient.

Shed antler and leather jewellery by Outdoor Girl Creations

We can all buy things from the big chain stores and big-box stores, but it's far nicer to know that your earrings or picture frame, your new pottery piece or pot of skin lotion has been lovingly made by an artist who puts his or her heart and soul into the work. You can also feel pretty pleased with yourself after a purchase from a craftsman because you will know that the resources used to make your purchase were very often recycled, or sourced from “green” suppliers: artists and craftsmen generally have a driving need to reuse, recycle and do their bit to help improve our world - so it's an all round win-win situation for everyone!

Soaps and Lotions by Willow Creek Soapworks

A list of our artisans and their products will be on our website: check it out at www.bestofthewestweekend.com

Pyrography on guitar (Paintings by Bernadette)