Updated: Tuesday, September 15th, 2020One reason that we opened a retail store in 1987 was to be able to host events to bring people together. One of the signature annual events that we created, in 1995, was Collector’s Weekend. During this three day event, hundreds of collectors from around the country would join us for a weekend of art, education, and merriment. Not to outdo this event geared towards to “serious collector,” we added other events focused on creating traditions for everyone, including both Gerald Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol weekend which started in 2009 and last year’s inaugural Christkindlesmarkt.This year, like every other business and organization, there is change—both in the immediate and long-term. While the uncertainty of change brings about its own inherent challenges, we hope that a “shake-up of normalcy” offers a renewed appreciation for the traditions that may have started to become habitual, or at worse, that we’ve taken for granted. 2020 is not a normal year, and like you, Vaillancourt Folk Art is continuing to look forward and embrace change and challenge and be reminded that Christmas will always exist—even though the traditions may look differently.Artist Workshop: William Anderson And The Halloween ChalkwareCanceledCollector’s WeekendNotes: Considering the destinations around the country where collectors come from, we do not feel comfortable potentially exposing fellow collectors or our production staff with this event. Although we looked forward to celebrating out 25th Annual Collector’s Weekend, we know that celebrating it in 2021 will make it even more special. Registered painting workshop attendees will receive the receive the completed Painting Workshop Piece (a $300 value) by September and registered dinner attendees will receive a refund by the end of July.Uncorking: Releasing The Third Edition Vaillancourt WineCanceledChristmas Opening With Starlight SantaOur Annual Christmas Opening will continue as scheduled. Due to COVID and social distancing, this year collectors will be able to obtain their premier number starting at 9:00am. All pieces will be pre-numbered and pre-signed by Judi Vaillancourt. We apologize for those collectors that are used to choosing their piece to be numbered in the order in which they arrive for the 5pm opening.Learn more »#DickensWeekend: A Christmas Carol with Gerald Charles DickensCanceledNotes: What is a major heart break, Gerald Charles Dickens will be unable to travel from England for his 11thannual one-man performance here in Sutton. Christkindlesmarkt & Artisan ShowCanceledSutton Chain of LightsThe town of Sutton’s volunteer group that coordinates the Sutton Chain of Lights has officially canceled the event—which included the trolley and stops to area businesses. Our retail gallery will be open regular hours (9a – 5p) but will not have our live entertainment or tours of the Artists’ Studio.As a business, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility. We’ve been mindful of protecting every employee that we can considering the changing dynamics of both wholesale and retail throughout the world while preserving our business for future generations. We’re grateful that our collectors have been supportive during these times and enthused to know that Christmas will happen no matter what.
