In the late afternoon of a warm and sunny day in early August, well over 150 showed up at the Livingstone Studio for Sue Thomson’s well-choreographed Art Fair. Tables, awnings, and Arabic tents were set up from the street to the back of the Rustic Villa cabins, where several artists took turns passing out glasses of white wine and a variety of tasty hors d'ouevres. People wandered back and forth, enjoying themselves. They examined the paintings, sculptures, photographs, jewelry, pottery, and quilts, chatting with the proud and friendly artists, and saying hello to friends they had not seen elsewhere on the Island. Lots of sales were made as well, promoting a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie and good cheer. The Fair ran from 5:00 until 8:00, but as the closing hour approached, few wanted to leave because they were having such a good time. The show had to be struck, though, but it was accompanied by a universal sentiment: “I didn't know how nice this would be; I'll be sure to bring all my friends if you do this again next year.”

After several years of Meet the Artist, in which various artists appeared, one or two at a time, at her gallery, Livingstone Studio, owner and artist Sue Thomson is taking a different approach this year: having them all come at once! Previously the most fun was the interaction between artists as they came to one another’s shows, so this year will have a large gathering of artists, a celebration of summer, and a demonstration of many diverse and creative talents, from painting and sculpture to jewelry and pottery. And the whole town is invited!