March 22, 2009 — More than a thousand people strolled around the Whim Museum grounds Sunday afternoon, enjoying food, music and art at the 21st annual spring St. Croix Landmarks Society Starving Artists Day.
The artisans focused on selling their work, and many reported brisk business.
"Sales are going good," said Delphine Brady of Del's Soapbox, specializing in handmade soaps. "And the sales aren't really down at all from the last show in November."
Well-known local businessman and entrepreneur Bob Merwin sold family, history and commercial books of his to benefit the St. Croix Landmarks Society.
"The turnout and sales have been wonderful," Merwin said.
Lea Ann Robson of From the C sold her jewelry and ornaments made of sea glass, indicating she was offering items in her higher price range. It's hard to figure out how much effect the economy has on how much people spend, she said.
Vendors included Marilyn Cook of Kamani Creations with her one-of-a-kind jewelry designs, Island Angels by Sylvia Brady, and JoAnn Jones selling bamboo planters containing flowers and herbs. There were veterans such as Roger Nickle, who has come to Starving Artists Day a number of years to sell his wood-turned bowls and vases. Artist Stuart Rames, on the other hand, was there for the first time.
Rames, a soon-to-retire fireman in the V.I. Fire Services, said he has just gotten back into painting. He was schooled in art at the Pratt Institute. His acrylic paintings are colorful, with sharp black borders around objects rendered in bold brush strokes.
Jamesie and the All-Stars provided musical background while couples danced. New this year were arts and crafts for children and demonstrations by local artists.
Vanya Neptune of Lioness Creations demonstrated making lavender-infused body oils. Mandy Thody demonstrated clay sculpture, and Matt Fenske of Island Fire demonstrated glass blowing.
The clouds made some threats and a bit of a sprinkle hit the area a little after 2 p.m., but it was not serious enough to interrupt the main pastime — enjoying an afternoon on St. Croix.
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