Published November 11th, 2009
ARTISAN AND WINE FAIRE
Submitted by Cherry Benzie
Jewelry by Gail Solt
A group of artisans will display their unique approach to various mediums at the Orinda Country Club, 315 Camino Sobrante, on Thursday, November 19 from 4:00 - 8:00. Works of art will include jewelry, glass, ceramics, woodwork, fabric, weaving, photography and paintings. A selection of wineries, including the local Amaranthe, will offer tasting of a variety of wines that will also be for sale.
A volunteer group of local craftsmen and art lovers have been working for several months to bring this show together. Their goal is to offer a wide variety of work so that many different tastes can be satisfied. The venue offers a pleasant environment to come and meet the artists and discuss their work.
A jeweler you will meet is Gail Solt. She has a background in photography, painting furniture, and working with glass. But her love of collecting jewels and stones from around the world led to her true passion, and in 2004 Gail started her own business called GS Originals. A collection named "From Russia with Love," inspired by finding beautiful pieces of amber on a recent journey to Russia, will be the highlight of her display.
Watercolor artist Cherry Benzie has sketched homes in the Bay Area for many decades. Two years ago she replaced her pen and black ink with a digital camera and vibrant colors. The arrival of an Apple computer in her studio brought a whole new way to produce art. The photographs she takes, edits and prints have a very painterly quality; the subjects chosen through an artist's eye reflect her very different approach.
Carol Zeman grew up in this area and from an early age her love of color and shape was evident. She later studied design at UC Davis. Her vibrant personality is evident in her colorful brush strokes and happy results. Carol loves to cook; the results are often painted before being served. Recently the emphasis of her artwork is on pet portraits, influenced by her two King Charles Spaniels. A delightful sense of whimsy is captured in these paintings along with each pet's unique personality.
The Art Faire is free and provides a festive opportunity to meet friends, sip wine and talk art.
By artist Carol Zeman
George Lucido's wood work

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