Showcase of Arts in Barrington Nov. 2
On Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3, the 12th annual Showcase of Arts event that exhibits artists from the Midwest, will be held at the Barrington Park District. The exhibition, organized by Barbara Thompson and Kathy Walker, is one of the quality hidden showcases in the Lake County area.
For two days, the public is welcome to view a carefully selected group of over 90 artists. The free admission will provide a unique fair-going experience during the holiday season, including folk art, photography, stained glass, interactive works and jewelry.
This year, the featured artist is Barrington’s Paul Siracusa. Paul founded the Cripple Creek Hat Company. Drawing on his previous career as an archaeologist, Siracusa started with his famous “critters” designs that soon became a showbiz favorite. These unique creations were soon noticed by costume designers, and Cripple Creek hats began to appear onstage and in movies, including “Smokey and the Bandit II” and “The Untouchables.”
Siracusa has sold hats to celebrities, including Willie Nelson and Burt Reynolds. His designing talents have extended into other mediums, including sterling silver and leather goods.
Other local artists who will be presenting are Anita Peters, with her award winning jewelry designs, Lynn and Diane Abbott’s exceptional gourd art, Geri Meyer’s Faberge-style eggs and ornaments, and Chris Robinson’s unique folk art.
The Barrington Park District will have several rooms for you to view these creations. The location of this showcase is 235 Lions Drive, Barrington, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3.
For information, visit www.barringtonparkdistrict.org or call (847) 381-0687.