Fine Art Festival at the Village at Taunton Forge

As the sun rises high on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, the Village at Taunton Forge will come alive with the vibrant spirit of creativity and community. Nestled among the shops like Dory’s Mediterranean Goods, and charming restaurants like Illiano Cucina, the first annual Fine Arts & Craft Fair will be in full swing—a haven for those who appreciate the high quality & beauty of handmade treasures and the soulful melodies of live music. Shopping hours are 10-4!

Art Goes to Town, launched by Lesha Moore of ELM Gallery focuses on promoting artist events, exhibits, and classes in the region. We’ve seen a variety of events from Art Goes to Town but this may be the largest thus far. “What inspired you to bring this event to Medford?” we asked Lesha Moore, a photography artist herself, and the visionary behind this artful celebration. Her eyes sparkle with passion as she replies, “Art is in all we see and experience, it is the one consistent thread that connects us all to each other no matter our circumstances or backgrounds. As a lifelong artist and lover of the arts, I am motivated to support artists and creators in their efforts to express themselves through their talents.” So it seems the shorter answer there, is passion! Lesha & her husband Eric have a real passion for the arts, and when there is passion behind an event like this, you know it’s going to be fabulous! Lesha, if our readers are not aware, is also one of the top volunteers in our beautiful little town. Anything something wonderful is happening in Medford, you can know that she and her husband are some of the magic elves behind the scene! So the Destination Medford crew knows that this event is going to be pretty amazing, because we’ve seen Lesha at work before!

With artist booths showcasing a diverse array of artwork—from captivating paintings to exquisite jewelry and intricate fiber creations—the fair is a testament to the talent and craftsmanship of the local creative community.

Among the featured artists are Beth Uth from Fiber Zoo Arts, Anthony Niglio, Betsy Naumchik, Steve Kuzma, Michele Foster-Lucas, Simon Zeng, and many more, each bringing their unique vision to life through their art. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet these talented individuals, acquire original pieces, and gain insight into the creative process behind their work.

“We have 20 of the area’s Fine Artists and Artisans for this 1st annual fair,” Lesha explains. “We even have ELM Chocolates, (pictured below) a chocolatier representing the Art of Chocolate.” Captivating, and delicious!

As visitors explore the village, they’ll be serenaded by the sounds of live performances, including poetry readings by Sophia Westfall and friends from The Secret Society of Poetry, theatrical performances by The Broadway Bound Players, and musical performances by indie artist Jay Runyon, Steve Kuzma, and A.C. Mitchell.

But this event is not just about art—it’s about community. “I fell in love with Medford and the people of this community and wanted to get involved,” Lesha shares. “I am thrilled to be surrounded by others who selflessly give of themselves to consistently improve our community. There is great motivation in numbers! It is hard work but nothing is more fulfilling than being of help to others. When we all do well, we all do well!”

You can also expect to see these fine artisans & musicians at the event on Saturday, from 10-4! Make a whole day of it & enjoy a local lunch at one of the Village of Taunton Forge’s restaurants (our favorite, is Illiano Cucina, a BYOB, but impartially, Tacos El Tio & USushi is fabulous as well!)

Artists:
Betsy Naumchik – Paintings (Betsy Naumchik Original Fine Art)
Steve Kuzma – Paintings (Steve Kuzma Fine Art)
Michele Foster-Lucas – Paintings (Michele Foster-Lucas)
Simon Zeng – Paintings (Simon Zeng Art)
James Rosanio – Paintings (James Rosanio Fine Art)
Joy keldsen – Paintings (Joy Keldsen Art – JoyfulShoppe)
Kate Harr-Sponsler – Paintings (Kate Harr Art)
Catherine Scannell – Paintings (Catherine Scannell Fine Art)
Namita Wlotko – Paintings (Namita Wlotko Art)
Carolyn Jones – Jewelry (Sleepy Cat Jewelry)
Beth Bowman – Jewelry (Beth Bowman Jewelry Design)
​Anita Dipietro – Jewelry (Anita Dipietro Designs)
Sonya Maizell – Jewelry (Nine Birds Artisan Jewelry Studio)
Anthony Niglio – Jewelry (Dream Trader Jewelry)
Elizabeth Uth – Fiber (Fiber Zoo)
Donna Moyer – Fiber
Paul Biddle – Wood (Timbervisions)
Suzanne Reiger – Mixed Media (Paper, Stitch & Beads)
Liza DiDonato – Chocolatier (ELM Chocolates)

Performances and Music:
11 am
Sophia Westfall and Friends from The Secret Society of Poetry
12 pm
The Broadway Bound Players
1 pm
Music with Indie Artist Jay Runyon
2pm
Musical performance by artist Steve Kuzma 
3pm
Music with A.C. Mitchell

So mark your calendars and join us at the Village at Taunton Forge at 200 Tuckerton Rd this Saturday, April 27th from 10 am to 4 pm. Discover Art Goes To Town and experience the essence of the arts. It’s a Mother’s Day weekend treat you won’t want to miss! Event details are available at www.LeshaStudios.com.