Nestled within Woodside’s tall redwoods, the annual Kings Mountain Art Fair transformed the forest into a vibrant showcase of creativity over Labor Day weekend.
Around 300 volunteers came together to run this year’s fair. They provided booths for 140 artists to sell unique pieces, a “Kiddie Hollow” for children to participate in arts and crafts activities, and a dining area with food for sale. “Everyone really enjoys it. It’s a way for us all to come together and work on something that supports our community,” said Erin Baumgartner, a volunteer who runs public relations for the fair.
“Volunteerism is a significant aspect of the fair. We have volunteers from age five to 85,” Baumgartner noted.
For her second year at the fair, Anne Quigley displayed pottery inspired by Islamic and Spanish plasterwork. She traveled from Southern California, drawn to the fair’s outdoorsy environment, welcoming community, and relaxed atmosphere.
Quigley shared how difficult ceramics was for her when she started out, having to retake an introduction course multiple times. “I didn’t start doing this until I was 30. It goes to show life takes twists and turns and you don’t have to know exactly what you want to do,” she said.
“I think the crowd in general is very interested in art. A lot of them are looking at the art closely and admiring it, which really makes me feel good,” artist Anil Sawe said. Sawe started creating his own art when he began to approach retirement, as he found himself with extra time. When he later moved to Aptos to follow his love of the ocean, the views inspired him to continue painting.
The fair also holds emotional value for many. “It is just spectacular,” said Cheryl, who has been coming to the fair for 15 years. “When my kids were young, I took them to the little kid’s area, but now they’re grown up, so that’s just a special memory,” she said.
The Kiddie Hollow area provided arts and crafts like flower crown making, sand crafts, and paint and glitter art. There was also a “toddler table” that encouraged using imagination to make puppets, butterflies, and flowers from aluminum foil and fabric. Tickets for the area cost five dollars and grant access to all activities.
The Kings Mountain Art Fair first took place in 1962 with the intention of raising money to create a new local fire department due to the town’s distance from neighboring stations. Today, it is the Kings Mountain Fire Department’s main fundraiser, previously allowing the department to purchase a new fire truck.
Part of the proceeds from the artwork and food sold is donated to the Kings Mountain Elementary School, which enrolls around 70 students.
The Kings Mountain Art Fair is set to return next year to continue supporting local artists and offering enjoyable activities.
If you’re interested in showcasing your art at next year’s fair, apply here.
