BERWICK, Maine — Something new is brewing for the day after Black Friday this year — Red Saturday.
The Berwick Art Association will be hosting a fine art sale and show to promote local artists and shopping local on the day following the post Thanksgiving holiday shopping frenzy.
Red Saturday, a debut BAA art fair, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Summit Church, at 1 Sullivan Square, and will feature original arts and crafts, the live music of Hilton Park, refreshments offered by Somersworth’s Teatotaller Tea House and of course an opportunity to meet the artists themselves and do some local holiday shopping.
Berwick Art Association’s website says Red Saturday “encourages residents on the importance of local commerce by shopping for the holidays from neighbors and local artists, rather than spend at a big box store.”
“I know I would rather buy a gift with a story then one from a store,” said Berwick Art Association Director Justin Bloom. “If you buy something at Red Saturday you’ll be buying it from the artist. They can tell you why they made it, why it’s special, where they’re from, their story.”
The Berwick Art Association, formed earlier this year, is now comprised of more than 80 members. The group serves as a “an effort to unearth the often isolated, unconnected artists scattered around the greater Berwick area.” BAA works to provide collaborative opportunities for artists of all ages to have pop-up style venues to showcase their art during these tough economic times.
Bloom said, “The idea for an art fair was something we’ve had since inception … The BAA has always been about art and its ability to bring people together, be it to build friendships or communities. Red Saturday is just the newest incarnation of that idea.”
He said the Red Saturday event was generated organically among the artists at a meeting.
“We had a list of dates and venues, and Nov. 30 at the Summit Church lined up. We brought it to a meeting and Erin Duquette thought about it, scribbled some notes, and exclaimed, ‘Red Saturday!’ and it stuck,” he said.
The former church is allowing BAA to use the space free of charge so there are no fees for the artists to participate. More than 20 artists signed up before the deadline and will have their work for sale at the fair.
There is a suggested $5 donation at the door for Red Saturday and more information can be found on the BAA’s website at www.berwickarts.com or by sending an email to berwickarts@gmail.com.
Distributed by MCT Information Services