Wandering for art
(photo courtesy of American Craft Walk/by Francesca Benedetto)
Whether you are a serious crafter or simply a hobbyist, there will be an opportunity to see a selection of some of the most unique, one-of-a-kind items Wilmington artists have to offer. Back in action again is the downtown American Craft Walk happening on Sept. 17. Over 100 artists will display their wares, which run the gamut from pressed flower art, batik, jewelry, painted wood pieces, ceramics and sculpture.
The event has changed many hands since its inception. Starting in 2006, it was known as the Art & Antique Walk. After being managed by Cool Wilmington for a couple of years, ownership once again changed. In 2009, the event was known as The Art Walk and included the art and craft scene. Cool Wilmington regained management of the event now known as the American Craft Walk. “The event has progressively grown over the years,” said Andrella Christopher, president of Cool Wilmington.
Cool Wilmington is an event management and production company in Wilmington that has produced events for 17 years in downtown for merchants. Each year, local artist Debra Bucci, paints a unique design for the American Craft Walk poster. This year, Bucci has painted orchids.
All participating artists are vetted, and they have to make what they sell according to Christopher. “For example, there is an alpaca farmer who processes the sheared fibers from their herd into yarn and then crochets shawls and blankets, toys for children and/or pets,” Christopher said.
Local artisan Jameka Wrisbon Purdie has participated in the American Craft Walk since 2017. Now her favorite event, she looks forward to selling her necklaces, bracelets, earrings and hairpins. “I really wasn’t sure what to expect the first year. I just thought I would take a gamble and give it a try,” Purdie said. “My head spun around at the large number of quality artisans. It has been a truly wonderful experience watching this marvel continuously grow.”
Click here to view a list of participating artists and makers for this year’s event.
"I think one of the things that makes this festival special is that we don’t have food trucks,” Christopher said. “Our goal is to bring people downtown to eat/drink at the local businesses once they’ve visited the festival.”
The Craft Walk is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will go along Front Street from Orange Street up to Grace Street and along Princess Street. The event is free and is family and dog friendly.
