Buffalo Rising Online

May 25th 2008, 10:29am By queenseyes

Now that Amherst Street has seen a few stores and a gallery open, it was only a matter of time before the residents and businesses got together to plan something more. They thought about a farmer's market and other such weekly draws, but in the end they decided that a weekly craft and art fair would best suit their needs. It was at that point when Michael Mayalt (remember Mike's story) decided to buy the vacant lot across from his real estate business. In the past, Mike has already been supportive of the nearby art scene (here's that story), so it only made sense to take it a step further. "Everyday I look across the street and see that vacant lot," Mike explained to me. "I knew that something needed to be done. So I bought it. I'm going to fix it up so that it looks nice - with an iron fence and greenery. I also knew that there had been discussions about a weekly event and decided to offer my lot to the neighborhood."

That's where Aimee Buyea of Sugar City comes in. Aimee is the person who has been trying to get the underground art scene to pop here in Buffalo (see her story). With Frenchy leading the effort (see Frenchy's story), the three set out to make design and develop a weekly art fair that would support the commercial businesses (with foot traffic) as well as the art community. The first gig is scheduled to take place the Saturday of the Rediscover Amherst Street Festival (the organization is also looking for floats for the parade). There is a call out for artists at this time... though there is limited space available. Here's the scoop from Aimee:

CALL FOR ARTISTS/CRAFTERS

The Grant Amherst Business Association with Sugar City present the Buffalo Homemade Bazaar on Saturday June 14th as part of Rediscover Amherst Street Festival. Come be part of the all day celebration that already includes a parade, live music, an art opening and more. We are looking for local independent artists and crafters to sell their homemade wares. This event aims to provide an outdoors open-air alternative to traditional summertime craft and art fairs. We have room for about 25 innovative makers of all kinds. Think: art, jewelry, t-shirts, paper goods, music, zines, small press, knit/crotchet, house wares, baked goods, etc. Registration is FREE. The deadline is June 6th. Sharing space is encouraged and please bring you own table, tent, or tarp (but don't get discouraged- let us know if you need help finding one). Set-Up is at 9:30am the festival runs 10am-6pm. Email Susan 'Frenchy' Cholewa to register or visit Buffalo Sugar City for more information and other events.