Artists in Action – Tyler Thiessen

Come and watch metalworker Tyler Thiessen as he creates a new piece. Thiessen has been creating works of art in metal for nine years, and has produced an array of custom fire pits, detailed art and metalwork. His style is influenced by the craft of blacksmiths and medieval art. Be amazed at the craftsmanship emerging in front of you.

Artists in Action – Joan and

Kristen Kirby

Local Goldsmith Joan Kirby will be demoing workshops with daughter Kristen Kirby. See past workshop students  working through the various jewellery making processes. Highlighting both Waterdown Goldsmith’s Metal and Wax Carving Workshops. Ever questioned how jewellery is creaded? Swing by and check it out! Joan and Kristen will be on hand demoing and answering questions.

Artists in Action – John Layton

Educated at the Ontario College of Art, Layton has been a professional artist creating glass in the classic tradition since 1980.  Layton’s creations have appeared in Readers Digest trade magazine, two Canadian films and as props in many productions of “The Glass Menagerie” across North America. Watch him bring the art of fine glass work come alive!

Artists in Action – LANCE DARREN COLE

Be taken back in time by this Master of Venetian Long Stitch Bookbinding, Lance Darren Cole. As he says, “It is a little skill I picked up in Italy.” Watch as he creates beautiful leather bound journals, albums, and limited edition codex style volumes. These one of a kind, unique works of art are suitable for all occasions. He will also be sharing in the Literary Cafe from his two inspired rhyming collections, Fables for Your Tables and Keys of Truth. Lance is happy to be in Waterdown for ARTSFEST!

Artists in Action – Manga-Me!

ArtsFEST welcomes back Japanese Manga Artist Heather Starks. She will be on site to draw your portrait while you wait. The Manga style of comic drawing is one of the fastest growing trends in Animation and Graphic novel. See yourself transformed into a comic book hero! She also takes Commissions for Family Portraits or Composites, and Bookings for Weddings, Parties and Corporate Events. Come ask Heather: “Please, Manga me!”

Artists in Action – Heather Baker & Alex Kirby

Known at Comic Con and Fan Expo for their companies KIRBY KOSPLAY and LEVENEZ COSPLAY experienced Cos-players Heather and Alex are here on site to demonstrate the art of Character Creation. They will show you how to use fabrics, and building materials to re-create your favourite characters from comics, movies and video games.

Artists in Action – Trevor Koornneef

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 12-5PM MAIN STREET MAKER’S ZONE

Join landscape artist Trevor, as he creates new original art out of reclaimed wooden logs. Creations are born before your eyes, as he demonstrates how he free hands his chainsaw to create his pieces. Trevor also creates custom live edge tables, benches, animals and can carve custom wood pieces that are still in the ground.

Artists in Action – Adriana Romkes

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 12-5PM MAIN STREET MAKER’S ZONE

Adriana is a local artist who grew up in the lovely village of Greensville, on the Niagara Escarpment, along the
historic Spencer Creek. She has background in the creative arts and is an emerging ceramic sculptor. Adriana will
be giving live demonstrations of how to make Relief tiles and Owl Sculptures.

Artists in Action – Cesar Cordoba

Cesar Cordoba will be building one of his beautiful sculptures here on the ArtsFEST grounds. Watch as he demonstrates a fusion of traditional Mexican techniques with plants and organic materials that Cesar has collected in Canadian forests or parks. The sculptures are made with paper and wire, and later defined with dry plants giving realism and detail.

Artists in Action – Andy DiTomaso

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 12-5PM MAIN STREET MAKER’S ZONE 

Woodturning has been around since 1300 BC but unlike woodturnners of the past, Andy DiTomaso brings a fresh take to the old world craft. Watch as Andy creates unique and functional pieces from fallen Southern Ontario trees. Andy brings over 20 years experience to his craft as well as his creative perspective.