About six years ago, Neal Farris, his wife Patty Goya and a handful of parents decided it was time to form a PTA group for children attending White Rock area schools. So they created the White Rock Preschool PTA, which eventually disbanded to make way for the Alex Sanger Elementary PTA.
“We were trying to do something along the lines of Lakewood’s PTA,” Farris says, explaining that the main goals were to get parents more involved and to benefit the school.
Their first order of business was to put on a fundraiser, and the discussion centered on all of the artists they knew. So the group decided to tap into its best resources — local artists — and the Winter Art Fair was born.
Each December for the past six years, anywhere from 60 to 75 local artists have submitted their work for this unique juried art show held at Alex Sanger Elementary School. The show features an eclectic mix of artwork, from crocheted hats to blown glass pieces to homemade candles.
But there is one stipulation for artists who enter the contest: all of their work must be handmade.
“We pride ourselves on that,” Farris says. “We really want people making the art that they show.”
And the show has a pretty loyal group of artists that participate each year.
Brad Abrams is one such artist. He and his wife Laura, both glass artists, have showcased their artwork at the event since it began.
Why does he keep coming back?
“Because I love the PTA system … It’s all about helping the kids try to raise money,” Abrams says.
“I just love doing it. There’s always new customers and friends and family I get to see.”
And the artists aren’t the only ones showing off their talent. The kids also receive a chance to perform at the event.
According to Farris, the first Winter Art Fair raised more than $5,000, and every year since they’ve pulled in anywhere from $6,000 to $9,000.
After last year’s show, enough money was raised to finally begin construction on a new playground at Sanger.
This year’s fair is scheduled Dec. 3. With the money from the event, Sanger PTA plans to invest in the school’s attendance program. The program rewards students who achieve perfect attendance with a bicycle.
A few other projects are up in the air, Farris says, explaining that this year and next year mark Sanger’s 50th anniversary, so the PTA wants to commemorate the milestone.
Says Sanger Principal Dr. Larry Allen: “[The Winter Art Fair] represents some strong teamwork between the staff and the parents and even the community … It’s nice to know we have that supportive backing from our parents.”
WHAT: Winter Art Fair
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
WHERE: Alex Sanger Elementary, 8410 San Leandro
DETAILS: Free admission; donations accepted; proceeds benefit Alex Sanger Elementary School
