By Esteban Ramirez
Reporter
The Village Artisans hosted the Medieval Faire with events such as jousting, wool spinning, clogging, lamp work demonstration and they also had plenty of vendors for Two days here at Bakersfield on Oct. 15-16.
It was at Central Park and this is the second consecutive year that they’ve had the Medieval Faire here at Bakersfield after stopping during the ‘70s.
This fair is non-profit and they donate to kids art programs because they feel that there aren’t many art programs currently, according to vice-president assistant director Linda Schorr.
“I think what makes the fair great is the quality of the crafters, the park and just the friendly atmosphere,” said Schorr.
She said that they were also supposed to have a speaker and a magician, but they never showed up.
Laurie Jo Phillips was at the fair and is an artist that has been going to many fairs for over 25 years. “I think this fair is great because of the variety of arts, crafts and that there is plenty of things to do here. It’s just a beautiful setting with good food and entertainment,” she said.
Debra Clutter, who does lamp work, gave her take on the fair.
“I think the music and the fact that people are dressed up is great, but also that they have jousting and bounce houses for the kids.
“I really like that they allowed me to bring my torch and let me show a demonstration on how lamp work is done,” she said.
Lamp work is when someone uses the flame of a lamp to make beads and Clutter has been doing it for five years.
“I think lamp work is neat because glass has unique properties that even allow you to make jewelry and put designs on it.”
Keith Barnes, who is the owner of The Garden Spot, shared his views on the fair.
“I really like the jousting and that the merchants are dressed with the proper attire, but I think that they could have more planned events throughout the day and a little more music that fits in with the fair.
“This is a lot more different than my restaurant since I have a salad bar and here I’m just making tri-tips and turkey legs.”
Tom Pope, who is one of the jousters, commented on the fair.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for the community to come enjoy all of our passions and for everyone to have a good time.
“I really enjoy putting on a good show for everyone and people can even be a part of the show.”
Pope said that they participate in jousting competitions and usually spent 2-3 weeks out of town competing.