On Saturday, July, 14, Riverwalk Market Fair will showcase a ceramics artist who incorporates elements picked from nature in her work; young, enthusiastic entrepreneurs with unique, hand-made products to sell; and two community nonprofits committed to improving the environment and enhancing social health. The Fair is held in beautiful downtown Northfield’s Bridge Square from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Featured Artist: Barbara Zaveruha
Clay found in the woods became the raw material for ceramicist Barbara Zaveruha’s first pinch pots. She loved the idea of starting with earth and ending with dishes. Her discovery led her to the Northern Clay Center for ceramics classes, an apprenticeship and a move to the country where she built a wood-fired kiln. Nature still inspires her work. Sometimes she imprints native grasses from plantings on her land. Mostly, she says, “I want my pots to be sturdy, safe and functional, and a delight to the hand and eye so you use them every day.” Learn more at http://zaveruha.com
Featured Food Artisan: Northfield Union of Youth
This Saturday students from the Northfield Union of Youth (a.k.a. The Key) will sell treats for dogs and their humans. Sales of organic dog treats and homemade sodas will teach students about fundraising and entrepreneurship. Every week Riverwalk Market Fair’s Youth Booth offers free booth space to young entrepreneurs, funded by Healthy Community Initiative, the Northfield Enterprise Center and the WINGS Entrepreneurial Fund.
Friends of the Market
Riverwalk Market Fair supports local nonprofits by providing a venue for them to reach out to community members. This week the Fair sponsors two nonprofits. The Cannon River Watershed Partnership (www.crwp.net) engages people in protecting and improving the water quality and natural systems of the Cannon River watershed. In addition, the Fair welcomes Growing up Healthy-Broaden and Build (http://growinguphealthy.org), one of three finalists in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Connect for Health Challenge. The finalist receiving the most votes will receive a grant of up to $100,000 to build social connections for a healthier community. Visitors can learn more and cast their vote at the booth.
Musical Highlight
Singer, guitarist, harmonica player Kent Koester joins the Fair this Saturday, playing folk music with a Neil Young, Bob Dylan vibe.