The Fair and Exhibition…

The fair began the day after our arrival, from 3 -10PM. There were craftsmen from virtually all over the world, several hundred of us; primarily clay, but glass, metal, leather and fiber as well. Our tents were located just a short distance down the hill from the Taoxichuan Traders Hotel, with a separate entrance (our badges identifying us) and next to the lines of the paying Chinese public. It soon became apparent that we were celebrities, our tent identified us as being from the USA. The curious Chinese public asked for our autographs, to take our picture or take our picture with them. We were interviewed for TV and videos on social media, one even made it to air in Japan. The people were lovely, well dressed, slim, beautiful and handsome, all with cell phones and anxious to speak their English. Many were proficient, especially the young. All the while, there was entertainment going on near us, food being grilled to perfection, and processions of singers and dancers going through the columns of booths. The weather began misty and cool but a thunderstorm and heavy rain put an end to the evenings festivities. We adjourned, regrouped in the hotel and then went to the opening of the exhibition which was within the fair boundaries and near-by. On the way, we passed our International wall, a banner which displayed a drawing of each of us drawn from the photos we had sent previously for the catalog.  We were identified with our picture and country. Most of the exhibitors from the fair had a piece in the exhibition, there were many fine works displayed. A beautiful catalog was produced with our individual photos and as many as three of our works.  We seven Americans were front and center in the catalog. After the exhibition we went to a bar and met up with our new Japanese friends for a night cap and the end of a lovely day.