The Rochester Folk Art Guild presents its sixth annual Craft Weekend, from 8 a.m. Friday June 20th until 3 p.m. Sunday, June 22nd, at its East Hill Farm in Middlesex, N.Y. Workshops in pottery, wood-turning, weaving, wood block printing, documentary film making, poetry and drama will be taught by master craftspeople, including national, local and Guild artisans. The workshops are designed for students of all levels, including beginners.  “The weekend provides an opportunity for concentrated study and exploration of the arts and crafts,” said David Barnet, a woodworker and long-time member of the Guild. “This environment and the community spirit that develops here are ideal for honing one’s creativity. Many participants at last year’s event said it changed their lives by deepening connections within, with others and with their craft.”

Cost is $250 for the weekend for adults and $150 students. Those who register before May 12th will also receive a $25 discount. Delicious meals can be added to the cost of registration as can lodging or on-site camping (lodging and camping on-site are available on a limited basis). Registration is required.  A downloadable registration form is available at http://www.folkartguild.org. Those interested can also call 585-944-3153 or email craftweekend@folkartguild.org for more information.

Course information, a complete schedule, and photos of last year’s event are also available on the Website. Each day includes an optional yoga class at 7 a.m., followed by a fresh farm breakfast at 8 a.m., after which students disperse to their workshops.  During the day, students come together for meals and to observe each others activities. At the end of the weekend, everyone gathers to share their work and experiences. “Last year’s event was a rare opportunity to study with accomplished artisans and alongside like-minded individuals in a setting that is conducive to creativity, nurturing and quite beautiful,”said a pottery student. “The experience was the high point of my year and I am eager for this year’s workshops.” The weekend workshops are partially sponsored by a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts.