Glass artist among vendors at Christmas on the Fox
Gabrielle Wilson's fascination with hand-blown glass art is equal parts creativity, history, respect for her medium and, yes, the thrill of danger.
“There's a certain risk you take,” says this 28-year-old Carol Stream resident and founder of Gabe's Glass & Artifacts (gabesblass.com). “I'm addicted to flame, but eventually you will get burned, you will get cut; there is always something hot or sharp around.”
Still, the results are lovely, sometimes quirky vases, goblets and bowls that Wilson will be exhibiting and selling during the annual Christmas on the Fox Art & Craft Show, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, and Sunday, Nov. 27, at the new Kane County Expo Center on the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road., between routes 64 and 38 in St. Charles.
“Humans have been making glass since before the birth of Christ,” says Wilson. “Glass is in every facet of your life, from your phone to your car. We wouldn't have modern life without glass and glass chemistry.”
Wilson is one of dozens of artisans and crafters participating in this popular show where festive booths will be stocked with creative goods handmade in America and not available in retail stores.
In addition to Wilson's glass art look for dramatic sports photography by Bob Baer of North Aurora, American Girl doll clothes by Marsha McCrory of Lansing and ruggedly beautiful jewelry made from industrial remnants by Heather Spear of Palatine.
Rosann Wynykoski of St. Charles will exhibit folk art paintings, Bill Morse, a former firefighter from Elgin, will demonstrate chair caning and show examples of his work and John Warnock of Gilberts will offer artistic baskets handmade with pine needles.
For added sparkle and holiday spirit there will be a Christmas tree decorating contest for local residents, businesses and organizations. Everyone is welcome to cast a vote for their favorite design and pick up some tree-decorating ideas.
Plan to spend the day; tickets are $3, children under 15 free. Parking is free, lunch will be available and the building is handicapped accessible.
The show is presented by Robin Reed, owner of Art in the Heartland, Inc.
For show information contact Reed at (815) 772-3279, rareed57@yahoo.com or artoftheheartlandinc.com.