Last day to buy Alaska-made handiwork, art at AWG Craft Fair
Rick Scott carving a Wood duck at the Arctic Winter Games craft fair being held at the at the old Carrs Mall, near Sears, in Kenai.
Photo By Rhonda Larson
While Alaskan-made crafts at their best have been available at the Arctic Winter Games Craft Fair since Thursday, participants and spectators better hurry to get their souvenirs before departing for the far reaches of the circumpolar north after Saturday’s Closing Ceremonies.
Twenty booths line the fair exhibiting a wide array of superbly made crafts, art and handiwork. Featured items include beaded jewelry, handmade scarves, fur hats, gloves and pillows, stained glass art, smoke-tanned moose hide moccasins, intricately carved woodwork, along with a variety of other items.
Alaskan Eskimo Artwork’s Lenwood Saccheus is originally from Elim, Alaska, “a checkpoint on the Iditarod,” he said. His beautiful Eskimo hunter spirit mask is made from soapstone, whalebone, ivory, baleen, feathers and wood. Edna Saccheus’ lovely seal skin dressed dolls with ivory faces are also available.
Alaska Tribal Cache of Seldovia boasts an excellent selection of Alaskan picked and made berry products.
“The blueberries and Salmonberries were exceptional this year,” said Kris Burt. A sample of blueberry jelly proved that to be true. They offer gift boxes that include an Alutiiq Berry Picker in a Bidarka handmade ornament, Alaska tea and a choice of berry products.
Games’ volunteers staff a “Kid Zone” booth where youngsters can color, do crafts and play while parents shop. A concession stand offers refreshments and local musicians entertain patrons throughout the day. The fair runs from 10 a.m-4 p.m. today at the old Carrs Mall, near Sears, in Kenai