Handmade art on the beach

For at least 33 years, the Laguna Craft Guild has given artists and artisans a place to show and sell their wares in arts-friendly Laguna Beach, without the rigors of a jury or expensive setup costs.

The Craft Guild sets up its tent on the Main Beach Cobblestones 14 times a year over a nine-month period, always on a Sunday. The next show is 9 a.m. to sundown Oct. 23.

“It is a stepping stone for many artists,� said guild president Rachel Goberman, a jewelry-maker. “It’s a good place for young, new artists because it’s easy, affordable and friendly. It’s a foot in the door to the arts community. People have started there and gone on to the other festivals.�

The guild has spots for 34 artists, and is always looking for new members. You don’t have to be a professional artist to join.

Some artists have been with the show for decades. Some sign up for one or two shows, “just to try it out,� Goberman said.

The only requirements to be part of the show are that the craftmakers live in Laguna Beach and that everything sold is made by their own hands. The artists must also be present to sell their work and explain what they do to potential buyers.

The Craft Guild does not compete with the summer arts festivals, because shows are not held during the festival months.

The shows include arts and crafts in a wide range of areas. There are jewelry makers, painters, photographers, glass blowers, potters and woodworkers. Handmade clothing is also for sale.

The Laguna Beach City Council recently approved the 2012 exhibit schedule, which is necessary because the show is on public parkland. For a while after it was founded, the show moved around, but has found its “home� at Main Beach, Goberman said.

“It’s a beautiful spot,� she said. “I always know it’s going to be a good show when I see dolphins while setting up.�

Goberman said that sales were slow last year but purchases have picked up. With three more shows left before Christmas, she is looking forward to the holiday shopping season. Future shows in 2011 will take place on Nov. 13 and Dec. 18. The first show in 2012 is Feb.12.

Keeping up with the times, the Guild has a Facebook page as well as a website, lagunacraftguild.org.

To contact the group, email [email protected] or visit the Facebook page.

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Twitter: @CindyFrazier1