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Neal Blodgett has lots of fun woodworking and painting. But what the 88-year-old Higganum native really loves is traveling the state to display his art at shows, especially the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce show.
"It's fantastic. I love it," said Blodgett, who has been to the Fairfield show eight times. This year he took home first place in the crafts division for his wood carvings.
The self-taught Blodgett says each of his pieces is unique. "When I make a rooster, every one is different," said Blodgett, who's been sculpting for 35 years. "They are never the same. So everyone gets a one of a kind piece."
This year was the 48th show on the town green. Saturday and Sunday, it included watercolors, oils and acrylics, photography, pottery, clothing, jewelry, toys, furniture, bags and accessories.
Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Patricia L. Ritchie said that although this year's show was smaller than usual and the artists liked having extra space to exhibit.
Stephen Ray of Waterbury won first place in the fine arts category. "It's a great green and the people here are very friendly," said Ray who specializes in paintings barns.
Barbara O'Boyle finished second in fine arts, and Janice Flynn of Westport finished third. In the crafts category, Dan Gomes finished second for his teak furniture, and Allen and Mumin Jacobsen finished third for their hand-sculpted jewelry. In each category, first place received $100, second place $75 and third place $50.
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