Volunteers and artists showcase talents at Naper Settlement

Early this morning, July 14, the gentle breezes and sunshine were welcomed by more than 100 artists and their assistants as they set up booths for the 53rd Annual Fine Art Fair, hosted by the Naperville Woman’s Club. The art fair is the club’s primary fundraiser and members were out in full force volunteering hospitality and giving directions to be ready to open the gates at 10AM.

According to Art Fair Director Roxanne Lang, the exhibit was juried by several local artists, Marie Gnesda, Kimberly Mularkey and Traci Limes. This weekend’s show features original artwork in clay, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, metal, painting, photography, sculpture and wood.

After talking with a number of the artists, Naperville Woman’s Club President Julie Cunningham said the art fair seemed to be “a traveling artists colony,” of sorts.

Some of the artists have exhibited with the NWC Fine Art Fair previously. Some of the artists know each other from other art fairs. Some are meeting for the first time. And they all enjoy learning what’s new from each other, said Cunningham.

Plus, the artists are passionate about their work and they welcome opportunities to share their stories.

Volunteer Coordinator Ann Bobrowicz, who joined the Naperville Woman’s Club two years ago, complimented reliable volunteers such as Jane Wuff who always show up to help. Wuff joined the Naperville Woman’s Club 10 years ago.

“Most of our members volunteer for more than one shift on more than one day,” Bobrowicz said.

Wuff added, “And why not? We get to come and sit in the sun for a few hours and make a difference for organizations such as Loaves and Fishes and Families Helping Families.”

The Empty Bowls Silent Auction, designed to benefit local food pantries, is set up this year in the air-conditioned Meeting House, located at the Porter-Webster Street south entrance to Naper Settlement.

P. J. Belgio of Belgio’s Catering set up to provide lunch, snacks and cold beverages for purchase.

Petite Picassos again provide a tent where youngsters can express their artistic talents.

Live music will fill the air, too. From 12:30-2:30PM Sat., July 14, the Running Fox Bluegrass will play.

Sunday’s live music begins with a 45-minute performance of the Chicago Sinfonietta at 1PM. Then at 2PM Sun., July 15, the Naperville Chorus Ensemble will sing.

The NWC Fine Art Fair runs from 10AM-5PM today and Sunday, July 15, on the beautifully landscaped grounds of Naperville Settlement.