One of the best things about the holidays is seeing old friends and getting to meet new ones. And on the off chance you haven’t yet heard, New Cumberland borough is a place to meet all sorts of creatives, from artists and crafters to hipster musicians, beat poets, theatrical ensembles and dancers alike. My esteemed colleague, Karen Hendricks, paved the way for this blog in her December Burg article on New Cumberland’s rebirth.
We braved the elements (Arctic temperatures and gale-force winds) on the Sunday before Thanksgiving for a Merry Merchants Holiday Market held by the New Cumberland Collective in the parking lot of Neato Burrito. Two dozen or so artists set up their shops for holiday sales.
Upon arrival, I ran into none other than the mural maestro, Stephen Michael Haas, standing before his masterpiece mural covering the entire wall of the Neato Burrito building. I was able to follow his exploits throughout his monumental year in art from his Instagram account. Finally getting to meet him on that most blustery afternoon proved to be auspicious for the merry makers I was to meet.
A hat ornament by Ellikin Knits. Ceramic squirrel by John Guarnera.
I was drawn to a booth of bounty, bold and bright colorful knitwear perfect for the winter weather that had just arrived. Stephanie Hawkins of Ellikin Knits was manning the stand as designer, knitter and all-around creator of her captivating couture collection. She was aided and abetted by her husband, Bradley, who is also a maker of “making things happen” as a user interface designer. Ellikin Knits’ range of products includes knit caps, ear wraps, mittens and scarves in an array of rainbow colors for any mood or moment.
Thinking about the close relationship I have with the squirrels in our yard, I wondered aloud if the shop had a winter cap suitable for one of my furry friends. I am an inveterate squirrel lover of many years, so I felt it was time to treat one to a warm topper. I ended up purchasing a hand-knit, tweed “Squirrel Nutkin” cap that any woodland critter would feel well turned out wearing. Stephanie assured me they were one-size-fits-all and can double as a sack for nut carrying. In actuality, they are sold as tree ornaments with details down to the smallest suede tab placed as an elegant trademark touch. In truth, the best-selling knit caps are made for adults and fashioned to a wearer’s fancy.
With yet another 10 weeks, at least, of winter weather ahead, you can find Ellikin’s wares at both Brain Vessel gallery locations in Mechanicsburg and Hershey and at ellikinknits@gmail.com and ellikin.com.
Those knits full of whimsy form a joyous juxtaposition with the wellspring of faith-based, hand-crafted pottery and wood from Humble Hand.
Pottery by Brooke Jones
Listening to the story of potter Brooke Jones’ life journey may at first sound bittersweet, but it has led her to a transcendent peace. Receiving a diagnosis of dystonia as a teenager could have broken the spirit of the strongest, but it proved to be a blessing in disguise. Together with her husband, Rob, a woodworker of consummate skill, they created Humble Hand. Founded on the principle of kindness, they explore the relationship between wood and clay being wrought and molded by hand until finely tuned and tempered by love.
“Together, we find gratitude in the meaningful works that our hands create,” Brooke said.
For me, the beauty of a humble cup with a swath of delft blue running through it leads me to dreams to come and lands yet unchartered. Rob’s wooden cutting boards and charcuterie platters, as well as his trays, create an ambiance of artistry to beautify the table of any home. As artists and a couple, they complement each other on every level.
Cutting board by Rob Jones
With Valentine’s Day a mere month away, when looking for that perfect gift, keep Humble Hand in mind. Contact them at www.humblehandco.com or email humblehandco@gmail.com.
3rd in the Burg Events and More
Susquehanna Art Museum showcases the exhibit, “Souls Shot,” found in the lobby gallery. Powerfully poignant portraits promote an end to gun violence as seen in the haunting faces of victims lost to those tragic means. Artists met with family and loved ones of victims to arrive at the very essence of their souls in capturing the quintessential qualities of lives cut short. Opens Jan. 12 and runs through April 16.
Millworks artists found on the lobby wall for 3rd in the Burg are Reina R76 Wooden, Elaine Elledge, John Davis, Susan Bailey and Tina Berrier.
New Cumberland Collective “Art in the Stacks: Meet artist Molly Goehring,” Saturday, Jan. 14 at 3 p.m. at the New Cumberland Library through Jan. 28.
Art Association of Harrisburg’s members show, “Figuratively Speaking,” Jan. 13 through Feb. 17, with an opening reception on Friday, Jan. 20, 5 to 8 p.m.
Arts On the Square at Market Street Presbyterian Church, Jan. 15 through March 12, The Paintings of Carol Mayer and photography of Jim Whetstone. Opening reception Sunday, Jan. 15 at 12 p.m.
CALC’s opening reception for “Beautifully Broken” is this Friday, Jan. 13, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and runs through Feb. 4.
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