Warm weather is here, which means so are all the local farmer’s markets! I know, you are all thinking: “But I already grow all of my own food…”

Farmer’s markets are more than just fresh produce, however. I’m fortunate enough to live near the Hillcrest Farmer’s Market which boasts of not only perfect produce, but also grass-fed meats, baked good, jellies and jams, plants and flowers, and even local art.
 

I’d like to indroduce Ellyse Frazier, one of the market’s talented artists. She works in pen and ink, watercolor, and (most recently) cement pottery.

LL: How did you get started selling your art at the farmer’s market? 

EF: I began at the Farmers Market helping my brother Ethan sell his heirloom plants (ethansheirloomgardens.blogspot.com).  I thought it would be a good opportunity to sell prints from my artwork since I focus on cottages, garden-scapes, and pictures from old photographs. Many people seem to be interested in having their old heirloom photos re-created in pen and ink watercolor.  They make great gifts for friends and especially for hard to buy for parents and grandparents.

Recently I have been designing and sculpting hand-made pots made of natural materials mixed with cement to showcase Ethan’s heirloom plants. The pots resemble stone but are light weight creating a nice English Country charm.

LL: Can you share some of your favorite pieces with us?

EF:  English County inspired cottage:
 

 
A lighthouse from an old picture found at my grandparents house:

Decorative garden bucket perfect for any flowers and a collection of herb planters:
 

LL: Why should people spend Saturday mornings at the market?

EF: It has a fun and energetic vibe and a wonderful laid-back atmosphere, which makes it a great social gathering place.

You can read more about Ellyse’s projects at ellysesstudioarts.blogsopt.com. And next time you’re in need of a gift, think of your local market first. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see what you find, and who you’ll meet, when you think outside the box [store].