Kim Bennett's Studio: FestivALL June 19

Sorry that I haven’t posted lately. I have been sharing a computer with three other people. It took us just over a week to get all four of the computers connected to the internet and the wifi set up.

What I like about visiting the states is that there is one big festival after another. There has been three locally in a few weeks time. My explanation to most of my friends in the UK is it is just another reason to have a party. But, I am sure that the lovely weather has something to do with it too.

One of the first things I did in West Virginia was to visit some of the studios and shops that were participating in the June 19 – 28th FestivALL 2009 in downtown Charleston. This was a celebration showcased many local talents. You can click to view a slide show of the FestivALL 2009 that I found through the Gazette.

This festival was directed by local talent and the host of NPR’s Mountain Stage Larry Groce.

On the morning of the first day a friend and I went into Charleston and had a look around some of the studios that were preparing for the festivities and opening night. Some of the places we visit included some of the studios belonging to the Allied Artist in West Virginia.

While we were in down town Charleston we had a look at the Callen McJunkin Gallery that is now above a fabulous antique store. It was fun looking around the place and interesting to see what some of the local artist were doing.

We also stopped off at Pro-Art to say “Hi” to Jack Trail and his son Tracy who run an independent art shop. I have been going there ever since a child and art student. They are very helpful and knowledgeable when it comes to artist materials. If they don’t have it they will order what you need. I also managed to pick up a few a pieces of Ampersand to try out.

I must say that our first priority was to stop at a bakery that makes specialty breads. Everything looked and smelled delicious. I brought several breads home with me. Everyone’s favourite turned out to be the olive bread and I only got one slice! The large scones went over well and they were light as a feather.