Susan Barr
Kern Valley Sun

Warm weather and the pleasant shade of Kernville’s Circle Park made for an enjoyable experience for visitors to last weekend’s 46th Annual Sierra Arts and Crafts Festival.

The Labor Day weekend event, put on by the Kern River Valley Art Association, kicked-off on Friday evening with an opening reception at the Odd Fellows Hall. Jim Davis, association president, said the turn out “...far exceeded our expectations.” More than 300 guests attended.

Taft resident 7-year-old Kailey Hale had her face painted at the 46th annual Sierra Arts and Crafts Festival in Kernville.

In addition to featuring many of the artists and artisans exhibiting in the park, the association was able to showcase its current fundraising project “Boots Up For Art.”

Several uniquely designed cowboy boots measuring more than two feet tall and weighing in at 75 pounds were sold at the evening event. “We are hoping businesses will display these beautifully hand designed and painted boots for people to see and enjoy,” Davis added. Proceeds will ultimately be used to bring art instruction to various schools around the valley.

As people strolled through the park, vendors were eager to showcase their unique artistic wares that included one-of-a kind jewelry pieces, clothing, candles, furniture and even “happy” metal yard art.

Rustic furniture maker B.J. Field had many visitors at his booth that featured wood creations and metal cabin decor. “Business has been very good this year,” the Tulare furniture maker said. “I guess the economy has begun to pick up again after a couple of slow years.”

Local artisan Joyce Zvenia spoke with visitors at her jewelry booth showing pieces she created using porcelain, pewter, leather and even stones from her garden.

“I would encourage everyone who lives in the valley to come to our shows,” said Zvenia, a Southlake resident. “It is good for them see that we have so many wonderful local artists who take such pride in what they create

Much to the delight of the younger crowd, face painting and free children's art workshops were offered. This year youngsters were able to create their own one-of-a-kind mosaic tiles while association members stood by to offer guidance whenever it was needed.

Eight-year-old Bryanna Smith of Bakersfield and 7-year-old Kailey Hale of Taft were just two of the children totally enthralled with their project. Smiling onlookers watched as the two meticulously chose glass shards for their tiles that were as colorful as the fairy face paintings they each sported. Grandmother Jacqui Melton, also of Taft said, “This is so nice that they offer this for the children.”

For more information about future Kern River Valley Art Association events, call 760-379-2844 or visit them online at www.krvaa.org or at www.facebook.com/krvaa.