published: Friday, November 04, 2011

Artists get time to shine on the Circle

By ED BALDRIDGE

ed.baldridge@newssun.com

SEBRING -- It started 45 years ago and folks from all over Florida come yearly to the Sebring Circle looking for that unique Christmas gift during the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival.

Hosted by the Highlands Arts League, the event this year is shaping up to host a lot of local artists, according to Yellow House manager Susan James.

"We have some great local talent. This year we have a waiting list for artists that are hoping for a cancellation," James said about the 50 booths that will be setup around the Circle.

The free festival will run from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. will exhibit a collage of different art mediums, including notable Sebring artists Janet King and Alice Hansen.

King and Hansen work in water colors, according to James, and will have art for sale.

Mixed among the artistic talent and high-end crafts, James said that the children's section has expanded, making the yearly shopping event a family affair.

"Included with the crafts tent for kids, we will have pony rides and a fire truck as well as face painting and plenty of activities for the whole family," James said.

Student artists from the Sebring High School art club will be showing and selling their art among the 10,000 or so visitors from both coasts, said HAL Board President Jeri Wohl.

"This event is designed to bring more art and culture to Highlands County from all over the state. We have some good artists here, but this gives everyone a chance to get exposure from a variety of good work in several different mediums," Wohl said.

What was a two-day event last year has been compressed into a one-day affair this year, Wohl said, mostly at the behest of the artists and vendors.

"This is a good all-day event for families. I like to look for that unique Christmas present every year, and with the great weather, it will make for a great leisurely stroll in downtown Sebring and enjoy some good food and great art," Wohl said.

"The board really puts a lot of work into this. We start in March, and their volunteer efforts, along with some great sponsors, are what make it possible to get this kind of quality event year after year," Wohl said.