24th Anniversary Celebration for Art Market

From forty display tables in 1986 to over 200 artisan store fronts in 2010, the much anticipated Art Market is celebrating 24 years this November 18th through November 21st at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre.

"When we started twenty three years ago, the artisans of Art Market were in many cases hobbyists and part time crafters," says Marlene Loney, Producer of Art Market. "Today we have professional artisans and you really see that in the quality of the work and in how the work is presented."

In the beginning, Art Market was a craft show featuring a small group of fifty crafters and artists. Over the years, the diversity of the items presented has expanded. The artistic creativity and quality of the pieces have risen each year and as a result, Art Market has grown into a major national show attracting artisans from across Canada.

What is the key to maintaining a consistently high quality art and craft event? Marlene Loney along with the artisans presented constantly strive for excellence. Loney travels extensively searching for new high quality artisans. Artisans are invited to participate and submit applications for a stringent selection process. Loney says, "We stick with Canadian handmade pieces presented by the artisans. We've maintained the integrity of the original Art Market concept but we have broadened the scope of the show. That is clearly reflected in the quality of the work that is presented."

Along with the new artists, many Canadian artists have evolved along with the show. Joy Bamford from Winnipeg, MB has been showing fine stained glass work at Art Market for many years. Bamford says, "Stained glass is my whole life as far as work and recreation. Even after twenty five years I still love what I do." That passion is clearly represented in the work shown at Art Market.

What is in the future for Art Market? Marlene Loney only sees the show getting better. "Why would I retire from doing something that brings this much excitement and energy together in one place? I work with wonderful artisans that have so much passion and creativity. I am going to do this for another twenty years; it is a tradition."