Symphony Jewels ~ beaded and wire-wrapped handmade jewelry

Show Review
Cuneo Gardens, Vernon Hills, IL
Hosted by D&W Events
Sat-Sun, May 24-25, 2008

Take a stroll through the Cuneo Gardens Art Show and take in beautiful scenery and equally beautiful artwork!

The park itself is breathtaking. I was so busy setting up on that early chilly morning, it wasn’t until I finished my display and took a step outside my tent that I saw the peaceful lake a stone’s throw away. As I walked back from the artist parking area, the stone pathway led me through a beautiful garden abundant with budding flowers, contrasting green boxwood and burgundy barberry and a forest of mature trees. Cuneo Gardens also features an historic mansion open for tours and open to the public for indoor restrooms with functioning plumbing!

I have never attended or participated in this show before, but I can’t rave enough! This is a young show and the flow of attendees is light and steady. That means there is plenty of parking and you don’t have to fight the crowds. But I predict it won’t be long before this show becomes well-known and well-loved!

It is a smaller show, featuring only 45 artists this year, but don’t let that deter you. The artistry in this show is amazing! There were several vendors in various mediums, but each artist had their own style, giving customers quite a variety. For example, there were several jewelry designers, but not one of us had a similar style. As an artist, I felt like I really had no direct competition. As a shopper, I felt like each booth I walked into was something new and delightful.

This show also provides a great way to spend time with the family. Admission is free to the public and the show features artwork, entertainment, food and a kid-friendly environment. Parents can spend some time at the Kids’ Art tent, keeping the young ones busy and allowing them to create some art of their own.

The entertainment tent had a variety of music playing throughout the entire event. Each day, Saturday and Sunday, featured three different musical artists with a nice variety of songs, adding a wonderful element to this little festival. Not only could you enjoy viewing and purchasing original artwork, but you could also enjoy listening to original artists and songwriters on stage, featuring some of their own musical creations.

Last but not least… the food! I am a big fan of food, and this is one of the greatest spreads I’ve seen at an art fair. The main course was provided by a local caterer that grilled your meal on the spot. They had burgers, hot dogs, and fabulously tasty chicken and bell pepper kabobs. Beverages included non-alcoholic and alcoholic refreshments. I greatly enjoyed the kettle korn booth. I’ve never tried it before, but I’m hooked on that delicious combination of sweet and salty! There was also fresh-squeezed lemonade, fruit smoothies and funnel cake. Yes! Funnel cake! Just like an all-out festival!

Maybe it was the satisfied tummies, the peaceful park setting, or just the thought of a relaxing 3-day weekend, but the artists and guests alike were thoughtful, friendly and happy. It was one of the best show experiences I’ve ever had. If you haven’t attended this show, mark your calendars for next year!

For D&W Events’ full show schedule, visit their website at www.dwevents.org.