Ruston Makers Fair: Celebrating the Arts in North Louisiana

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

The first Ruston Makers Fair will bring makers, music, food and fun to Downtown Ruston, La. on September 12!

Nomad Naturals soap made by Rachel Johnston

Inspired by the local makers and artists, Joshua Mitchell wanted to bring an event to Ruston that would encourage creativity and showcase the immense talent located here in North Louisiana. Mitchell, who was born and raised in Ruston, recognizes and admires the unique arts culture of his hometown and hopes to support this culture through the Ruston Makers Fair. 

"I was surprised by how many super-talented people there are around here, and doing events like this only encourages and brings that talent out even more," said Mitchell. 

With this in mind, Mitchell began plans for the first Ruston Makers Fair in early June, and the response has been incredible. He has secured more than 50 makers, artists and craftsman to participate in this unique event highlighting the work of modern-day makers. 

gourd piece by maker Anne Harris

"The makers in Ruston are real makers. They're so passionate about it, it's more of a lifestyle for them," said Victoria Smith, event coordinator of the Ruston Makers Fair. 

"I've only seen that [passion] in Ruston," said Mitchell.

The Ruston Makers Fair will be a free, family event located in Downtown Ruston at the public parking lot on the corner of Louisiana Avenue and Monroe Avenue. The fair will be from 11am - 6pm and is a come-and-go event. Mitchell hopes that hosting the event downtown will encourage people to visit, eat and hangout in Downtown Ruston during the day. 

Along with booths set up to display the artwork and products of each maker/artist, there will also be activities, food, interactive displays, giveaways and music at the event. Local singer Bethany Raybourn will be performing live from 1:00-3:30 pm. Additionally, there will be a pottery wheel throwing display by Chene Clay Company, artists doing live painting and a chalkboard wall where anyone can write and doodle. 

Shirt designed by maker Rosalynne Love

The list of makers and artists that will be participating in the Ruston Makers Fair is extremely diverse. People will be able to purchase artwork, woodwork, jewelry, t-shirts, word art, soaps, tea, coffee, honey and other locally-made items. The full list of vendors is below. 

Belle Vie Belle Maison, Martha Hartwell, Viola’s Kitchen Jubilee, Hart Originals, A Garden Rocks, Miramar Glass and Metal, Cajun Cottage Crafters, Railway Coffee, Mista J and Harley’s Uniquely Upcycled Designs, Allison Vestal & Hillary Clary, Vessel Vintage, Rosalynne Love, Brandiland Apparel, Anne Harris Gourd Artist, X and O Designs, Forge Golem, Young Living Essential Oils, Liz Zanca, Pastry Moon, Audie’s Wooden Bowls, Alice Morgan, Megan Lyn Ceramics, Kate Tedeton, Mystic Moonrise Art & Apparel, Kreative Kreations by Marquita, Adrianna Speer, Rabbet Run, Knox Knitting and Crochet & Haute Mess Designs, Stacy Medaries, Sapphire Moments, Tammy Ainsworth, Lana Langston Johnson, Whootails, Jodami Design, Southern Smith, Nomad Naturals , Cottontop Print Shop, Cee Bee Ink, Trese’ Jewelry, Red Earth Wildcrafted, Ali & MJ, Jake Dugard, Amanda Roe, Chandler Nelson, Jennings Apiaries, Robin’s Nest, Paperglaze Calligraphy, Everything Artsy Events, Phoebe Thomas, Realm of Possibility,Tess Stickney and Chene Clay Company. 

Succulent planters by maker/artist Katie Tedeton

Checks and cards will be accepted by most vendors, but you may want to stick to cash just to be on the safe side! 

In the future, Mitchell hopes to host another Ruston Makers Fair in a larger location with even more local makers and artists. He also hopes that this event will serve as a platform for local makers to network and build partnerships. 

For more information on the Ruston Makers Fair, visit the event's Facebook page or contact Joshua Mitchell at rustonmakersfair@gmail.com.