The 2007 11th Annual International Gourd Art Festival - Show Highlights

"The festival is a feast for the eyes!"
Judy Phillips - Yucaipa, CA

"It is the best craft event I have ever been to. It is well organized, has a great variety and the
wine and food booths really compliment the event. Most of all, I love the natural setting."
Kathy Swank - Canyon Lake, CA

This year's event was wonderful, with great attendance and perfect weather! Pictured above on the left is Dianne Connelly and her Silk Dye class and on the right, Ruth Phillips admires the work of Kristy Dial. Below are some photos that capture this year's excitement, fun and friendship. If you would like a name recognition in any photo, please send an email with the information to info@gourdfestival.com. Also, for information on the upcoming October Festival click here! The Classes
Pam Redhawk and her student Judy Prather pose with finished piece.	Is there such thing as too much love for your gourd art? Naaa. Mary Jane Welburn poses with her ocean drum.	Dianne Connelly displays her amazing silk dye gourd art.

Students in Dianne Connelly's Crushed Glass class show their finished work

A student in the Crazy Coiling class and her amazing gourd!

Leigh Adams - having more fun than anybody else!

"I love the festivals......the teachers are very knowledgeable and share their
secrets, they truly want their students to learn about the gourds and the artistry."
Kathy Moore, Chula Vista, CA

Toni Best expertly guides a student in her Pine Needle Basketry class.

Having a great time in Don Weeke's class..

A Kayum drum student proudly carries her finished work.

Interested in taking part in gourd art classes offered at the next festival? Be sure to sign the Gourd Festival mailing list!

Welcome to the main event...

Ready to go!

Festival early-birds enthusiastically line up.

The Sequoia Gourd Art group ready for buyers.

Heidi Sanger's booth was always full.

Guests admire the creativity of Dianne Connelly.

Carrie Dearing and her mom Pamela Redhawk; This is what it is all about!

"Thank you---Thank you !!! what a wonderful learning experience. I took 2 class's and plan to take more next year, the whole event was wonderful .Very well organized and planned. Thank you again!" Gay Shuell, Lake Isabella, CA

"I'll take this one, thank you very much!"

David Abernethy of Grain In Focus demonstrates one of his custom drums.

Valentin Ruegsa of The Browning House took Best of Show, Best Gourd in the Novice Division, and 1st place in the Mixed Media categorey. Wow!

The Torrz Martinez Bird Singers use special gourd rattles and beautiful songs to pass on their cultural traditions.

All ages enjoy what the festival has to offer.

The Gourd Crafting Arena was one of the best attractions, thanks to the Califonia Gourd Society!

Dianne Connelly won a Judges award for this fantastic piece, and also sold it for over $1,000.00!

This was only Daniel Montano's 2nd attempt at gourd art, which won Best in Division and later sold for $1,100! Look out for him!

Everyone enjoyed relaxing in the wine garden and listening to the variety of music.

The Festival Gourd Crafting Arena isn’t the only opportunity for you to get hands on experience with gourds…did you know the Welburn Gourd Farm offers FREE Gourd Crafting Workshops the second Saturday of every month? Sign up for the upcoming Gourd Workshop – Click here!

Kristy Dial in her very busy booth!

Dianne Connelly in her booth with the great vine & gourd bower.

Happy gourder with her prize picks!

First time exhibitor Heidi Sanger was definitely a favorite with festival guests.

Maria Dellos kept the demo booth packed with her captivating gourd art demonstrations.

Have you ever seen anything so cute!

The GourdMaster booth was a popular stop.

Congratulations to Donna and Stan Holman of San Diego who won the festival ticket stub entrance drawing!

So many fantastic gourds to choose from!

Mary Amos describes the facinating process of coffee and green gourds used to produce her incredible art.

Marilyn Sunderland stunned the crowds with her amazing carved art.

First-time festival exhibitor, Suzanne Wilka attracted attention with her unique style.

No one can resist those endless racks of raw gourds!

Valentin Ruesga of The Browning House generously shares his artistic knowledge.

Suzanne Wilka shares her gourd-joy!

Special thanks to the Garnsey family for all of their help and support.

Most of all, thank you to you, the festival attendee, for coming out to enjoy the show! Please tell us what you thought of the festival: Click here.