An array of hand-made treasures await those who venture past Cultus Lake, and head to Art on the Farm, Aug. 20, in the Columbia Valley.
The annual event is a celebration of the region's artists, and a chance to discover the inherent charm of the valley, says Art on the Farm organizer Minda Chittendon.
Just past Lindell Beach, the Columbia Valley has been the location for Art on the Farm for six years.
"It's a beautiful and peaceful spot with lots to see," she promises.
Visitors will find a stunning examples from painters and photographers, but also unique items like bonsai art, stained glass, and handspun wool.
Check out the miniature horse farm, winery, U-pick blueberries and lavender, as well as the annual local pig roast.
Home-baked sweets and eats abound, and the melodic sounds of acoustic music in the apple orchard, with community theatre by the King Apple tree.
It's become the place to peruse the wares of so many talented artisans, who are juried and must hand-make the products they show and sell.
Asked why she started Art on the Farm, Chittendon points out that she really wanted to "show off the incredible talent" of the area.
The farm will feature pastels, paintings, hand-made kids' clothes, quilts, knitting, watercolours, jewellery, papier mache, woodworking, and much more.
"This year's event will have more hands on art activities than ever before," says Chittendon. "Visitors to the farm will be invited to help paint a permanent mural, try leather tile-carving or make an art postcard."
Demos on how to do Claymation, carve wood, create glass beads and build tile mosaics will also be offered.
Farm goers can satisfy their taste buds with popcorn, fresh u-pick blackberries, home-made pies, hot dogs, corn, coffee, muffins, edible flower shortbread, home made salsa, jams and more. Children’s activities include face painting from the Yarrow Eco-Village and story time.
"I am very excited about the huge mural we will paint this year," says Chittendon. "It will be left for others to see in future years I hope that people will come and sit in our orchards and paint, sketch or draw. Let the farm inspire your art!"
Last year they had a man ask if he could play accordion in our field.
"Naturally we were thrilled and so he stood in the middle of the field and played fabulous accordion music for hours. I hope he comes back.”
Performance Schedule: Chilliwack School of Performing Arts is on at 11:30 a.m. and again at 1 p.m., Jared Fowler from 10 a.m. to noon, and Norine Braun and Sax Appeal between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Art on the Farm is Aug. 20 at Barking Dog Farm, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1162 Iverson Rd, Columbia Valley, Chilliwack (GPS Coordinates are 49.023831,-122.060863) artonthefarm.ca