Ollie Gratzinger | Features Editor
It isn’t summer in the ‘Burgh until the annual Three Rivers Arts Festival comes to town. From its start in 1960, the festival has given artists the opportunity to sell their work to the many visitors and residents that attend each year. Take a look below at some of the exhibits featured in this year’s event, which ran from June 2 to June 11.
Created by artist Maria Penho of Sexta Feira, “Umbrella Sky” hung over one of the many entrances to the festival, giving attendees a taste of the art they could expect to see.
Artist Kelley Skillin of Katydids Kritters began crafting cute critters when an invitation to a one-year-old’s birthday party inspired her to make a gift.
Skillin’s work is described on her business card as, “Original. Whimsical. Functional.” She can be found at www.katydidskritters.com, and for information of new products, shows, and sales, be sure to check out her Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Dee Miller of DM Wooden Flowers & Vases creates vibrant wooden flora, bursting with bright acrylics and bearing a striking resemblance to the real thing.
With over 20 years of experience, Dee Miller loves selling at the festival, and her pieces promise to be “forever beautiful.” Her flowers, along with vases, plates and more can be found at www.dmwoodart.com, and information and pictures alike can be found on Facebook.
According to its website, strawberryluna is “a design & printmaking studio duo with a focus on handmade, vibrant art & illustration crafted by hand, the old fashioned way.” Wooden bowties caught the attention of an interested crowd, but small, handmade drawers and silverware (woodware?) drew in curious onlookers, as well.
Allison, an artist at strawberryluna, carves a wooden spoon live at the Three Rivers Arts Festival. Her studio’s work can be found at www.strawberryluna.com.
Works of Man showcases the creations of artist Matthew Naftzger and his talent for metalwork and design. His pieces are deeply intricate, made up of parts that can be moved, opened and turned that come together to create something entirely unique.
According to his website, www.worksofman.com, Matthew’s creations represent “obscure purpose” and “lost history.” He also writes, “I strive to create the artifacts that will be found and repurposed; objects having their own evolution, including dead-ends, mistakes and miscalculations.” His artwork is as endearing as it is impressive, and as impressive as it is relatable, in a surreal kind of way.
Returning to the festival for year number 12, Daniel Baxter and his Kreepy Doll Factory got their start in a garage way back in 2000, when he and a friend decided to make them on a whim.
Baxter’s Kreepy Dolls come in all different shapes and sizes, and no two are alike. Every piece is handmade with personality and style. A wide collection of his work can be found, along with buying options and comics, at www.kreepydollfactory.com.
