On Saturday, August 9, the John R. Park Homestead will introduce its Lost Arts – Found Skills Workshop Series, in advance of the Lost Arts Festival.
Participants are invited to join some of the many talented festival artists for a curated selection of workshops to learn new skills and leave with a finished work of art.
“Lost arts often require specialized knowledge and an application of personal style that many modern activities don’t demand,” said Homestead Curator Kris Ives.
“This can create a sense of accomplishment and unique identity for those who practice them. It will be inspiring for workshop participants to learn these skills directly from the artists and artisans who are experts in their fields.”
Workshop options include Macrame, Embroidery, Needle Felting, Leatherwork, Wood Carving, Printmaking and Kumihimo Braiding.
Prices range from $25 to $50 and include instruction, all materials, and admission to the John R. Park Homestead. Pre-registration is required at https://essexregionconservation.ca/found-skills.
On Sunday, August 10 from 11am – 5pm, the Lost Arts Festival will provide guests with opportunities to meet local artists and artisans with unique talents and see them crafting their incredible works.
Kids can try their hand at the Imagination Stations and enjoy old-fashioned toys and games. See demonstrations around the early settler farm, including blacksmithing, woodcarving, black powder, spinning, weaving and more!
Find some special treasures to purchase and take home. Enjoy special encampments and demonstrations from Fort Malden National Historic Site and from Lac Ste Claire Voyageurs reenactment group.
Watch as the Homestead’s resident blacksmith turns raw iron into detailed pieces. Tour the newly restored home of John and Amelia Park following its once-in-a-lifetime restoration.
Don’t forget to say hello to Maple, Sugar and Taffy, the Homestead’s resident heritage breed sheep.
Lunch from Scotty’s BBQ food booth is available for purchase, and enjoy delicious maple cotton candy from the market for dessert.
Admission is included with your ERCA Annual Pass or purchase tickets in advance online via ERCA’s website at
https://essexregionconservation.ca/lost-arts . Tickets are also available at the door.