By: Andrea Chapman, Ekoji Member and Art Fair Co-Chair 

Saturday, May 4th, marked the first of what I hope will be many Art Fairs for Ekoji Buddhist Temple. In total, 19 local artists participated in the event which attracted a modest, yet sustainable, audience whom enjoyed mild temperatures, a delicious vegetable curry lunch and a captivating collection of artwork, jewelry, Japanese dolls, fiber arts and home accents. 

Perhaps more importantly, than the weather holding out and captivating artwork on display, is the fact that the event also served as an opportunity for us to open our serene campus up to the community. Membership co-chair, Leslie Poon, gleefully provided visitors with tours of the Temple while I wondered table to table collecting stories of inspiration and hope. 

Situated in the nook, just outside the Temple doors, is where fellow Ekoji member, Michele Bailey, confided this was her first art exhibit. Michele, like many, was particularly grateful to display her art amongst the company of Sangha friends. 

As a maker myself, it is always a pleasure for me to visit with other creatives; yet, I sensed there was something very different about the talent that had gathered for this event. There was no application by which any of the artists were vetted. In fact, each spot was filled first come first serve. In hindsight, I realize how much of a risk this was; for everyone involved. The vendors were obviously taking a chance on us as this was our first event and we were taking a chance on them. This, I suppose, is what it means to have an entrusting heart. 

Inside, the Sangha Hall, fellow member, Pilar Uelmen and friend, proudly displayed their beautiful collection of locally sourced mohair yarn and hand knit goods. And, just to her right, board member, Molly Kuramoto and husband, officially launched their handmade business which specializes in kumihimo keychains. 

And, everyone in attendance was fortunate to take in the exquisite Japanese inspired art produced by Mark Malecki whom is classically trained in Japan. If you missed out, there will be another opportunity to take in the splendor at Obon. 

As for myself, I allowed my daughter Megan, to run our table in exchange for 50% of the sales. This afforded her the opportunity to practice her customer service and cash handling skills while I made a handful of new creative friends with whom I will be meeting again soon. 

Many thanks to all the volunteers who helped the day of the event and a special thanks to my co-chair, Maya Horio who as you know wears many hats here at Ekoji! All in all, it was a successful event, that has great potential to grow and support this Temple not only as a fundraiser; but, also as an outreach opportunity. So please mark your calendars for the first Saturday in May 2020 and plan to join us for the Second Annual Ekoji Art Fair!