Submitted
A welder by trade and recently retired, Ellard Einasson now spends his time creating an array of remarkable art featuring beautiful interpretations of animals.
Some of these pieces weigh more than the average home décor (or small child) but they garner a conversation the instant they're spotted.
Ellard calls his work "Cuts Metal Design" offering an insight into how the custom pieces are crafted. The finishing technique is what brings colour and life into each fabrication.
This Cranbrook artisan was the first to reserve a vendor space in this year's Sam Steele Market, having enjoyed his involvement last year. He's had time to evaluate the market experience from a vendor's perspective and claims "the market at Sam Steele Days Central Fairgrounds in Rotary Park offers a more diverse crowd than any other local market," citing the broad exposure that vendors receive on both Saturday and Sunday of Cranbrook's four day festival.
People who don't usually go to markets will often browse and buy while watching the stage show or waiting for another event to begin.
An estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people are expected to attend the Central Fairgrounds.
Personally handcrafted items or small business products will have their chance to win some fans (and customers) on June 20 and 21 in the midst of a festive environment and beautiful outdoor venue in the heart of downtown Cranbrook.
Sam Steele Society Director Lynn O'Neill coordinates the market.
"Getting involved with the Sam Steele Society three years ago was a great way to meet people in the community, especially having just relocated to Cranbrook and the province the year before," O'Neill said. "Taking over the market organizing was a daunting task as first but the support of this amazing group of volunteers, as well as the great vendors we have, made my first year a positive experience!"
Marc Poirier, local manager of Manitoulin Transport which sponsors the Sam Steele Market as their way of investing in community, has also enthusiastically offered some volunteer time. Sponsors and volunteers are what makes this fantastic city-wide festival so great each year.
Market vendor space is still available but limited. Reservations must be secured before June 9th. Those interested can download and print a vendor application from the Sam Steele Days website www.samsteeledays.org or contact the Sam Steele Society at (250) 426-4161 or email info@samsteeledays.org.