Community Corner
Crafters, Artists Sell Their Wares at Utica's Old Mill Festival
Unique items draw crowds to annual event.
When Shelby Township resident Larry Senkowski sees an old coin, he doesn't toss it into a piggybank or his wallet. Instead, he envisions a bracelet, necklace or earrings.
Senkowski owns El's-Bead-L-Ry affordable fashion jewelry. His pieces include beaded and jewels made with coins from all over the world. He was one of the crafters/artists with a display at the Old Mill Festival in Utica.
"I enjoy the creative aspect of what I do, plus there's a lot of history here," he said of the coin jewelry. One piece featured a coin dating all the way back to 1865, while another was made with stainless steel pennies dating back to World War II.
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Senkowski was just one of many gifted crafters with a booth at the Old Mill Festival in Utica last weekend. Nearby, Shelby Township artist Lisa Bennett, owner of L.A.B. Designs Unique Wire Art, twisted and turned what appeared to be a thick, heavy wire within seconds to create the word "love." It was a display that attracted a small crowd.
Such was the scene Saturday and Sunday in Grant Park, when artists and crafters from all over the country gathered to sell their wares. There were also metal and wood crafters, and several other jewelry makers. Other tables at the festival included clothing for both dolls and people, soaps and lotions, lawn art, and more.
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There were refreshments and entertainment provided by a magician, musicians from Utica High School, and special activities for kids including face painting.
“It's a wonderful time to see old friends, renew acquantainces with the vendors, get some exercise and make some great purchases,” said Utica City Clerk Cathy McGrail.
Proceeds from the event benefitted the Parks and Recreation Commission.
This was the 22nd festival; the was first held behind the library, but eventually expanded into Grant Park due to its size. It’s named in remembrance of the milling that used to take place on the site of the current city hall when the area was a farming community, McGrail said.
