Ohio Designer Craftsmen show coming

By Hope Wallace

Another brief trip this past week involved poking around small communities.  It has confirmed that many of these towns are using creative ways to draw visitors. Traveling with my trusty sidekick, Carson, a 92-pound Labrador retriever, I learned many areas are dog-friendly. Outdoor cafes bring Fido their own bowl of water and treats. These businesses know strolling along is usually much more fun with a canine compadre and some retail stores often allow pets. Factories turned into funky theaters, semi-truck hood turned into awnings over entrances (believe it or not, it worked). Music playing from multiple places at once caused us to try and discover the source. New specialized cafes vs. chain restaurants and galleries popping up in towns smaller than 3000 persons are encouraging and inspiring.

On July 12, a national exhibit by the Ohio Designer Craftsmen, “The Best of 2014” will open at the Wassenberg Art Center with an old-fashioned ice cream social-style reception. Music by Matt Keeler and the Blues Reveler will perform on hurdy-gurdy,  mandolin and guitar. “The Best of 2014” is a traveling, multi-media exhibit curated by the Ohio Design and Craft Museum in Columbus. This exhibit will be on view through August 24.

Stop by after the Fountain Park Concert this Friday night to enjoy some beer, wine and great company. The Wassenberg Art Center is staying open late on Fridays to help expand our dynamic downtown activities.

Watercolor Techniques class is taking a break until July 22, but continues on Tuesday mornings starting at 10 a.m. This is an ongoing class is taught by Pat Rayman. Persons are encouraged to jump in anytime and the class is sold in monthly increments. $35 for members and $40 for non-members.

Vine & Palette is just around the corner for August and we always end up with a waiting list. Call soon if you would like to join us for the evening. The evening includes all painting materials and wine and participants may bring a snack to share if they wish. We take care of the rest. Wear a paint shirt or apron to protect your clothes. $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

For information on exhibits, classes and programs listed on there as well. The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 214 South Washington Street (former Van Wert Armory). We can be reached by telephone at: 419.238.6837, email: info@wassenbergartcenter.org and our website is: