Few things bring greater joy these days than seeing signs that our world is getting back to normal. For over a year, our festivals, events, and gatherings were put on hold as the nation and the world responded to a global pandemic. Closer to home, we stayed physically distant from our friends, neighbors, and community—and we watched as every summer event, including the art show, the craft show, and the summer concert series were canceled to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
But that was last year. This summer is different.
Maybe that is why it seemed so fitting that this year’s art show auction showcased paddles as the creative theme. The iconic shape speaks to the love of being on the water and the joy of spending time in the Adirondack Park. Perhaps it’s also fitting that “paddles up” is the command for rowers to have their blades in the water and to be ready to race. It was that kind of energy that seemed to grip the paddle auction, with bidders and attendees keeping NCPR’s Todd Moe busy as the auctioneer. Even without a working PA system, Moe kept the crowd entertained as he drummed up bids to benefit the area’s most promising students.
One unofficial estimate (someone in the audience was tallying the totals on the back of his paper plate paddle) showed that the live auction raised more than $5000 to support scholarships for graduating Clifton-Fine students. Without a doubt, the success of the auction is due in large part to the dozens of artists who created and donated their amazing work. But there would be no show, no auction, no sense of returning to normal without the hard work of Marilyn Zimber, Gail Gotham, and Char Lough, who organized the event. Together, with a small team of volunteers, they breathed new life into what has become one of the area’s most popular summer events.
Of course, the Cranberry Lake Art Show was also about the art, and it highlighted beautiful works from several talented presenters. A silent auction provided another opportunity for attendees to bid on original creations. Throw in a hot dog and some corn on the cob, and you had yourself a terrific time in Cranberry Lake.
Oh, and if you’re wondering about next year, loons will be the theme. Stay tuned to the Cranberry Lake Art Show Facebook page for updates and information. Paddles UP!
