New Britain Museum Of American Art Announces Dates For Its Annual American Arts & Crafts Fair

NEW BRITAIN — One-hundred twenty-five artisans from throughout the region will present handcrafted wares of the finest quality at the fourth annual American Arts and Crafts Fair, September 15 and 16, on the grounds of the New Britain Museum of American Art and adjacent Walnut Hill Park.

The arts sale is the largest yet in the history of the juried fair, which will feature exquisite crafts and original art, gourmet treats presented by some of the region’s finest food vendors, and live entertainment. Included in the $5 price of admission is free entry to the New Britain Museum of American Art, and fair admission is good for both days. Children under 12 will be admitted free to both the fair and the museum.       

The American Arts and Crafts Fair will be 10 am to 5 pm Saturday, September 15, and 11 am to 5 pm Sunday, September 16.

The fair will encompass a wide range of styles, rather than focusing on a specific theme such as country or contemporary. Included will be exquisite textiles, gold and silver jewelry in a variety of styles, decorative pottery, paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolors, photography, home furnishings and unique accessories.

“This is a fair worthy of presentation by a museum of American art,” said Douglas Hyland, NBMAA director.  “This year’s jury has selected the highest quality items for sale, in keeping with the tradition of this event.  The show has developed a well-earned reputation for quality among artisans and the public alike.”

The American Arts and Crafts Fair is family-friendly, as well. The New Britain Junior League will return this year to run its popular Children’s Art and Activities Tent. And with free admission to the museum, families can enjoy the world-class collection of American art housed within NBMAA and special exhibitions of recent acquisitions and the almost larger-than-life artwork of Zbigniew Grzyb, known throughout the region for his stimulating use of texture and color.

Also featured will be a jazz band from 10 am to noon on Saturday and 11 am to 1 pm on Sunday, followed by a jazz DJ.

The fair will be held rain or shine. The American Arts and Crafts Fair is a major fundraiser for the museum.

New Britain Museum of American Art is at 56 Lexington Street; signs are posted from I-84 and Route 372. For additional information call 860-229-0257 or visit the Web site www.nbmaa.org.