Visitors flocked to the St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival on Corey Avenue in downtown St. Pete Beach this past weekend and were rewarded with a mix of handcrafted items and fine art that ranged from the contemporary to the traditional. The craft festival, now in its 20th year, had something for everyone including an array of unique holiday gifts and decorations, entertainment and food. Many of the shops that line Corey Avenue were also open, giving visitors a true glimpse of the area’s offerings and community spirit.
Artisans displayed works that ranged from Florida-style accents and décor, unusual jewelry, wildlife photography and woodwork, clothing and pet wear. The free event featured a Green Market with exotic plants and handmade items that reflected the laid-back feel of the area.
Chuck Robertson (pictured), a Tampa artist at the event, created his wildlife sculptures from Florida cedar, a hard wood, unlike other types of cedar.
“The subject of each piece is determined by the shape of the wood, as no two are alike,” said Robertson. “I follow what nature does.”
Robertson then grinds, sands and cuts pieces with an orbital tool into fish and birds and other objects of the natural world. No stain is applied, as the grain gives each piece its singular color.