Arts in a community: Imagination and reflection of an island

A stroll through the Arts Market on a Saturday morning in downtown Fernandina is a feast for the eyes! There are colorful displays of jewelry, flags, paintings and more crafted by the talented citizens of our community.

My friend Amelia Julz has journals, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and wall hangings — all of which are personalized to the taste of her customers. Each piece tells a story. The first piece I purchased was a bracelet that said: “Remember where you started." When I choose to wear it, I think of my time as a graduate nurse, or when I moved here, or my first day of high school. Another wonderful exhibitor is SheShells, with beautifully crafted jewelry made from materials from the sea. And then there is Regina Maris Studio — stunning paintings that reflect the beauty of our island. These are just a few of the many artisans exhibiting at the Arts Market.

Browsing the market and conversing with the artisans, I am struck by their kindness. There is so much care poured into creating such beauty. And it is evident how much time goes into making each work of art.

A special thanks goes to Elizabeth Lee, who oversees the market. She is always present and is well known to the artists and to our community. We also owe thanks to our community for supporting the Arts Market and coming together to make Saturday a display of neighborly kindness.

The Arts Market recently moved to its present location at 506 Centre St., west of Pepper's Restaurant and east of Century 21 Realty. This turned out to be a great benefit, as there is an open lot with plenty of space to saunter and look, and so many vendors to satisfy all interests and tastes. The Arts Market is open on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, with more market days during the holiday shopping season. The convenience of having it across the street from the Farmers Market makes Saturday morning a happy event. Public spaces bring neighbors together for face-to-face interactions and cultural sharing. It's truly a reason to celebrate.

The Fernandina Beach Arts Market is not currently accepting applications for new vendors. When they do reopen applications, keep in mind that the market offers items such as paintings, pottery, apparel, leather, wood products, and more.

Barb Gingher is a 25-year resident of Fernandina Beach. Dr. Gingher retired in 2017 from Baptist Medical Center Nassau, where she served as Nurse Executive.

If you have a story you'd like to share here in the Fernandina Observer — about a neighbor or friend or stranger or business that showed you kindness, or about kindness and compassion in general — please contact Peggie Weeks at pegweeks@gmail.com