2019 Art Show & Auction

“Young Girl”

She is not just a pretty young lady. She is the artist’s granddaughter and is growing up unimaginably fast. From the excitement of a new grand baby to her first day of school felt like a day. And an eye blink later, there she was practicing the art of trying to get her way by being coy. Like all young girls, she was practicing this technique on her father first, but watch out world. It was watching her granddaughter being coy that inspired the creation of “Young Girl”, a 12” by 18” work in acrylic.

The artist is Leila Wolfe Trueba Fuson. Leila was born and raised in Tonopah but now lives in Reno. Leila has been painting since 1972 when she first used painting as therapy after her first husband died in a car accident near the Peavine turnoff west of Manhattan. She now paints for the joy of painting, typically working on still lifes and nature scenes. Interestingly, something about her granddaughter evolving into a young lady caused Leila’s work to evolve as well - this is Leila’s first work of modern art. Ever evolving and changing - that’s why Leila is 79 years young.

Please come and see “Young Girl” in the Silent Auction Gallery at the Belmont Arts and Crafts Show.

“Nevada Pride Bookmarks”

This was an impossible situation. Pastor Amy was trying to lead a Bible Study lesson on the 10th Commandment and everyone was staring at her but not a soul was listening! And then it dawned on her - a Nevada Pride Bookmark was dangling enticingly from the spine of her Bible. No wonder they couldn’t listen, they were all staring glassy eyed at her beautiful bookmark. Marge might have been drooling.

“There is a small exception to the “thou shalt not covet” Commandment,” Pastor Amy explained. “It’s okay to covet a Nevada Pride Bookmark ... but there’s no need to. Just go to the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show and buy one for yourself. But first, let’s finish this lesson.”

Nevada Pride Bookmarks will be back by popular demand. Each one has a handcrafted fused glass Nevada attached to the end, but are otherwise unique in designs ranging from whimsical to serious. They look equally great in the book you’re reading or the one on your shelf and therefore make great gifts for anyone. They were fused and beaded by Colleen Rice, a North Dakota transplant who made one for her mother as a reminder that someone in Nevada was thinking of her.

Just $15 and available for sale in the Craft Store at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show.

"Hidden Wells Quilt - 53” by 72”

This is the first quilt ready to hang at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show - there will be others. This one was made using the Hidden Wells pattern designed by Mary Ellen Hopkins in 1989. The Hidden Wells pattern is considered a “technique” quilt because it takes a special construction technique to create its intricate squares. Please take a moment to appreciate all its angles and how all those angles come cleanly together.

Making a quilt like this combines magical creativity and anal precision; it’s like a volley ball match between the brain’s creative right side and its mathematical left side. A quilter first creatively chooses fabrics in a variety of colors, hues, and patterns that will magically work together. Then the left brain gains control to make the precise cuts and stitch the exact 1/4” seams that will turn large pieces of fabric into strips and then squares. The right side then reasserts control to determine how best to combine those squares into a beautiful quilt top. The left side then precisely sews the squares together. Next, both sides of the quilter’s brain enjoy a glass of wine before focusing on adding the batting, backing, and of course, the quilting.

Every artist shares a piece of themselves in their work so I think it’s important to know the artist. This Hidden Wells quilt was made by an extremely interesting woman who prefers that her name not be shared on the internet. I can say that before quilting, archeology was her favorite hobby and that she was involved in several archeological digs in Israel when she lived and worked in Jerusalem. Since shortly before retiring about 25 years ago, she took up quilting and is an active member of two quilt clubs. She especially enjoying the challenges of geometric quilt patterns and the comradeship of her fellow quilters. In addition to quilting, she still does some archeological work in the desert Southwest and is also an accomplished photographer.

Please come and see how the right and left hemispheres of this storied woman’s brain cooperated to create her beautiful Hidden Wells Quilt.

"Very Nevada Handbags"

These beautifully crafted bags are expertly designed to safely hold what you need to bring along. Each has two zippered compartments accessible from the outside, and one also has an exterior plastic pouch designed specifically for a cell phone. Both are an easy-to-carry 7” x 10”, and each has a 22” strap designed to be securely worn cross body.

These bags will seem “normal-sized” for many of you. If you are used to carrying a much larger bag, they will come to your rescue when you’re headed to a sporting event with bleachers, a movie theater with a sticky floor, or a full day at a museum. They are light weight, washable and able to carry anybody’s essentials plus a thing or two for your significant other.

Both are made by Linda Thiros, a good friend of Scheela Morgan and an expert seamstress with over 50 years of experience. Linda also appreciates history. Despite her tangential ties to rural Nevada, Linda understands the need to preserve the Belmont Courthouse. You can check out these very Nevada bags at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show.

"Terry Tholl Pendants"

Terry Cutler Tholl has made more of her Nevada pendants to help raise funds to restore the Belmont Court House.

Terry is known for her generosity to worthy causes. She has been instrumental in helping fund the building of the Veterans House in Reno. Terry is a member of the Cutler family who generously support many worthy causes... one recent cause was the Paradise fire that destroyed a whole community. She does it all with a big smile . Thank you Terry.

"Antique Chair"

Can you figure out what this is? Of course it’s a chair but it’s not just any chair. Here’s a clue: there’s a secret compartment under the seat accessible through a door in the back. Need another clue? That lid you see on the seat can be lifted off to also gain access to the secret compartment. Still don’t have it? Here’s your final clue: the secret compartment is perfectly sized for a chamber pot.

Yes, it’s an antique adult-sized potty chair, also known as a commode chair.

Check it out at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show Silent Auction. The minimum opening bid is only $15 and the “Buy it Now” price is $75. (Chamber pot not included.

"Evening Bugle” by Joe Garcia, limited edition 18” x 25” print"

The thrilling and haunting sound of an elk’s bugle call is usually low and throaty at first, then it rises to a high whistle before dropping to a grunt or a series of grunts. Kind of like this: “A-a-a-a-a-a-a-a a-eeeeeeeeeeeeee-oh. Ee-uh. Ee-uh. Ee-uh.”

If you’re familiar with the sound, seeing this print probably started a chain reaction - first you heard that memorable call in your mind’s ear and then came the wistful smile. Don’t worry - it happens to everyone familiar with the elk’s bugle call.

The artist is Native Californian, Joe Garcia. Mr. Garcia is an established landscape and wildlife artist whose originals and limited edition prints are found in galleries and private collections in the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Europe.

Come and see this beautiful signed and numbered print of “Evening Bugle” in the Silent Auction Gallery at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show.

"Microwave Bowl Holders"

You are familiar with the problem if you’ve ever microwaved a bowl of soup. The bowl gets so HOT that it’s dangerous to remove. We have the perfect solution at the Belmont Arts and Crafts Show Craft Store - a microwave bowl holder. Ingenious!

Microwave bowl holders are made from cotton fabric, cotton batting and cotton thread so they are microwave safe for up to 8 minutes. No more burnt fingers! No more spilled soup! And if you happen to slosh some on the bowl holder, simply wash it on warm, dry on low and it’ll be ready for the next go-round.

These microwave bowl holders are expertly crafted by Scheela Morgan, part time Belmont resident. Sometimes you’ll find her behind the bar at the Belmont Saloon helping her brother, Tracy, but she’d much prefer to be at her sewing machine. Scheela has been sewing and quilting for decades and her expertise is evident in all she does.

Check out these microwave bowl holders at our Craft Store - just $15 - your fingers will be very glad you did!

"Quilted Notebook Cover"

Where did I put that list? Have you seen it? It was on a small piece of white paper. It was just here! Did you toss it? It was around here somewhere! Am I losing it?!!

We’ve all been there but thanks to Scheela Morgan’s quilted notebook covers, we don’t have to go there anymore. These notebook covers fit the standard 3”x5” wire bound notebooks that always get tattered before the paper is gone. Its interlocking pen loops keep the notebook securely closed ending that problem. There’s even an inside pocket for important notes, coupons, business cards, etc.

Scheela painstakingly included all the details that will make your quilted notebook cover so essential that you’ll never leave it behind - it’ll go from your night table to your purse, and anywhere in between. You’ll always have a place to add a note and always know where your notes are. And don’t worry if it gets dirty - it’s made from high quality quilting cotton so simply wash in warm water and dry on low.

You’ll find Scheela’s quilted notebook covers in the Craft Store. They’re available in a variety of beautiful designs for just $15 - pen and notebook included.

"Jazzy Jackets"

How to go from boring to “Belmont chic” in 5 seconds flat? Simply slip on a Jazzy Jacket over your boring tee or sweater. Made from breathable quilting cotton, these jackets add color and flash without extra bulk. The fit is across the shoulders and they flow out from there to a curved hem that is slightly longer in the back . The fabric was pre-washed and dried so there’s no risk of running colors or significant shrinkage. Some ironing is expected but the simple design makes ironing easy.

Each Jazzy Jacket was sewn in a different jazzy fabric by part-time Belmont resident, Colleen Rice. Jazzy Jackets will be available in the Craft Store at the price of $45 and in sizes ranging from 6/8 to 22.

"21st Century Potholders"

Potholders have been a best seller at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show for a few years now. It started in 2017 when Colleen Rice was looking for a low cost, everyone needs one item to sell in the Craft Store. Potholders were her first 4-H sewing project 53 years prior and potholders came to mind. 4-H taught her to use old bath towels as potholder innards but she still Googled “How to Make Potholders”.

Expecting potholders were like mouse traps, she was surprised to learn about Insul-Bright, a combination of hollow polyester fibers and reflective metallized film. Experimentation followed and she decided that inserting two layers of Insul-Bright gave potholders amazing heat protection while allowing the flexibility needed to securely grasp the lip of a baking sheet.

But remember - they can’t be used in a microwave and they lose their magical powers while wet. Obey those two rules, and be amazed at how potholders have improved over the last 50+ years. Will mousetraps be next?

21st Century Potholders in a wide variety of colors will be available in the Craft Store for $5 each.

“Ode to Nevada” Apron

The one place in the whole world one can obtain an apron infused with this much Nevada pride is the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show. Look closely - every design element represents something special about our state. You can’t miss our state flower, our motto and the large silver star reminding us of our state’s nickname, but the smaller silver stars evoke the dramatic night sky complete with shooting stars made from rick rack. The separate elements come together to create the perfect “Ode to Nevada”.

This “Ode to Nevada” apron was created by Connie Kretschmer of Wellington, Nevada. How does Connie incorporate this much Nevada pride into one apron? I’m sure it helps that Connie has been sewing for over five decades. And then there’s the fact that Connie has designed more aprons than there are recipes in the red gingham Betty Crocker cookbook. And don’t forget that Connie’s enjoys cooking for her third generation Nevadan family.

How ever she does it, we at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show are lucky that Connie generously shares her creativity and love of Nevada with us.

Please come and see this special “Ode to Nevada” apron. No, wearing it won’t make your cooking taste any better, but no one will care how it tastes when you look this good.

"Wine Tuxedo"

Picture Cary Grant. Now look at this bottle of wine dressed up in its tuxedo. See the similarity? There are occasions when a bottle of wine should look like Cary Grant. Perhaps you’re giving it to someone special. Perhaps you want to disguise that cheap bottle of Cabernet on your counter. Either way - a wine tuxedo is the answer. Instant savior-faire. Instant class. Instant Cary Grant.

Our wine tuxedos were made by faithful friend of the Art Show, Ellen Cecrle. Ellen is a retired professor who lives in Arizona and Minnesota and although she has never been to Belmont, she understands the need to preserve our history.

Wine tuxedos in a variety of colors are available in the Craft Store for just $10 each. (Bottle not included.)

"Nevada Fused Glass Tie Tacs"

We ran out last year, but fused glass tie tacks in the shape of Nevada will be back and this year there are two variations. They are perfect for backpacks, ties, collars, lapels, bulletin boards - anywhere you want to show off a little of your Nevada pride.

These tie tacs were crafted by part time Belmont resident, Colleen Rice. She refers to her crafts as Blissful Bits because her definition of bliss is making stuff. The background photo was taken just outside Belmont, her other definition of bliss. Nevada Tie Tacs are packaged in handy gift boxes and available in the Craft Store for $7 each.

We hope you can come and share in our bliss at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show.

"Luxury Pillowcases"

You already have a perfectly good pillowcase - perhaps a bit frayed and dingy but still perfectly good. Now let me ask you this. Does your pillowcase make you smile when you pull the bedspread down at night? Does it make you feel special as you drift off to sleep?

And that’s my point. There are some luxuries that are so darn affordable you have to ask yourself, “WHY DON’T I HAVE THAT?” These beautiful pillowcases are an example of one of those luxuries. For a ten dollar bill, the Craft Store will sell you a luxury pillowcase that will cradle your head in beauty at the end of a day. It’s not necessary. It’s a luxury - a luxury that you deserve.

These luxury pillowcases are sewn from top notch quilting cotton by expert quilter and friend of the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show, Ellen Cecrle.

"Colored Glass Sun Catchers!"

The Craft Store will have lots of colored glass sun catchers in a variety of colors, sizes and designs, with prices beginning at $12. So whether you love beautiful colors dancing into your room or dread the “thump” of a Mountain Bluebird - please stop and take a look.

The pictured sun catchers are named “Perpetual Rose” and “Home Means Nevada”, but don’t miss “The Last Leaf”, “Dog Tracks on My Heart”, “Rising Sun”, “Belmont Courthouse”, and “Super Blue Blood Moon”. Part time Belmont resident, Colleen Rice, had fun making each of these using a variety of fused glass techniques.

The beauty of sun streaming through colored glass has been enjoyed since at least the 7th century. Come in and enjoy our 21st century examples of this very old art form.

"China Plate Garden Flowers"

There will always be vibrant color in your flower garden if you plant one or more Chine Plate Garden Flowers. Whether or not you have a green thumb, China Plate Garden Flowers will bloom first come spring, be impervious to hungry deer all summer and resist frost come fall. Sturdily constructed from beautiful china plates attached to a treated pole, these China Plate Garden Flowers would be a welcome addition to any yard for years to come.

China Plate Garden Flowers were made by Dru Eckardt, a part time resident of beautiful downtown Belmont, and a talented artisan in a variety of mediums.

"Wall Clock"

This beautifully handcrafted clock was made by John Marzano, father to Joan Dixon of Big Pine, California and the Southern suburbs of Belmont. It’s eye-catching shape is sure to make it a conversation piece in any setting. BUT BE WARNED: it’s accurate Quartz movement will make you early for any event scheduled for “Belmont time”.

"Nevada Tote Bag"

DO NOT carry this tote bag if you want to travel the world incognito. However, if you proudly want the world to know that you call Nevada home, this tote bag will silently proclaim that fact. Strangers from Reykjavik to Kathmandu, from Cape Town to Rio, will recognize this tote bag’s iconic pictures and know you’re from Nevada. There’s plenty of room to include a small map of Nevada and a few photos of your home town to share with your new friends.

This Nevada Tote Bag was sewn by Linda Thiros, a good friend of Scheela Morgan, and an expert seamstress and quilter with over 50 years of experience. Linda even included a matching zippered accessory bag, perfect to store some Nevada Tie Tacs to give away to your new friends.

Happy travels, proud Nevadans!!!!

"Carved Miniatures"

WARNING! Our Craft Store has been invaded by a virtual zoo of miniature animals. There are rhinos, dogs, coyotes, squirrels, turtles and dinosaurs - oh my! Thank goodness they won’t bite but they will steal the hearts of the young and the young at heart. These cute little creatures were carved from stone by Peruvian artisans and donated by Sticks and Stones, Francie and Terry Terras, proprietors.

We expect that kids may enjoy inspecting each one of them. It’ll be soooo hard to make a choice. They will probably need to inspect each one again. And again. Let them look to their heart’s content while you use those precious minutes of freedom to explore all the other arts and crafts.

Miniature stone carvings - $3 each. Several minutes of peace and quiet - priceless.

"Beaded Key Chains"

Popular demand required the return of these colorful, intricately beaded key chains to our Craft Store this year. Take it from last year’s customers, shop early for the best selection.

Such cute key chains have many uses in addition to the obvious. They would be a distinctive zipper pull on a jacket or backpack. Attach one to your church key bottle opener and you’ll never misplace it again. They also make perfect stocking stuffers as you’re bound to find one matching the personality of several folks on your gift list.

Beaded by Guatemalan craftspeople and donated by Sticks and Stones, these beaded key chains sell for just $3 each.

"Framed Painting by Toni Perchetti Wombacker"

If you’ve spent much time in Nevada, this painting is bound to bring back memories of living through a similar sky - the smell of the moisture, the touch of the wind and the feeling of potential danger. It may also bring to mind a quote commonly attributed to Martin Luther: “God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars.” Martin Luther could have written a sermon about this painting.

The artist is Toni Perchetti Wombaker. Being raised in Tonopah and Reno, Toni no doubt has lived through many skies like this. After graduating in education from UNR, she taught elementary school and raised her family in Pahrump where she still lives.

Please check out this powerful painting at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show.

"Carved Wood “Beaded Basket” "

This exquisite carving was made by Charlotte “Charley” Phillips, a master woodcarver from Ft. Worth, Texas, and friend of Janet Johnson, master woodcarver whose bird carvings are perennial favorites at our Art Show.

Charley began her career in art as a decorative painter but turned to wood carving in 1995. Since then she has won several awards in regional woodcarving shows and has become a very active woodcarving instructor. The detail contained in her Beaded Basket - just shy of 3” tall and 3” wide - is nothing short of incredible.

The painstaking process to make this Beaded Basket began on a wood lathe where Charley first turned a bowl from a piece of Linden wood. Charley then needed to study that plain bowl until she could “see” the entire beaded design before continuing.

In order to liberate the basket from the wooden bowl, she next used a beading tool to turn the exact number of individual rings around the basket needed to complete the intended design. Then using a wood burner, she carefully divided one ring into the precise number of beads required by the pattern. And then she divided the next ring. And the next.

Once each ring had been carved into individual beads, Charley used an alcohol based ink to dye the individual beads into the pattern. The final step was to create the woven appearance at the rim by using a wood burner.

Countless hours of work were required to create this gorgeous work of art. Be sure to stop by the Silent Auction Gallery to appreciate Charley’s talent and workmanship. And a big thank you to Janet Johnson for donating this exquisite work to our Art Show.

"Beautiful Beaded Bracelets"

Belmont’s reputation as THE place in central Nevada to shop for jewelry is deservedly expanding. All summer long, Sticks and Stones, a retail jewelry shop owned and operated by Terry and Francie Terras, is a must-stop on your way into town. Sticks and Stones always carries amazing jewelry at extremely fair prices.

In addition to Sticks and Stones however, the jewelry inventory at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show keeps expanding. We now have three huge jewelry cases to fill! Here are just a few examples of the handcrafted beaded jewelry for sale in the Craft Store. These were designed and beaded by friend of the show, Ellen Cecrle. Prices are between $15 and $25.

"Estate Jewelry "

We are excited about the addition of Estate Jewelry to the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show this year. Last year’s donation of secure jewelry display cases made this possible. (A HUGE thank you to Joan and Rod Dixon from Big Pine and South Belmont for this donation!!) In addition, Francie and Terry Terras, proprietors of Sticks and Stones (everyone’s favorite Nevada jewelry store conveniently located on your way into Belmont) are lending their expertise.

Here are a few photographs of some representative pieces of Estate Jewelry that we are excited to be able to offer in our Craft Store. We hope you can make it to the Show and see the entire collection.

These pieces were donated by Ellen Cecrle. Ellen has never been to Belmont but has been a very generous friend of the Show. She lives in Arizona and Minnesota, depending on the weather. She’s a retired college professor and knows more than you can imagine there is to know about folk dance, but is also an expert quilter and jewelry maker. The Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show sincerely appreciates having Ellen as its friend.

"Fused Glass Jewelry"

The Craft Store will also have beaded fused glass jewelry for sale. Here are a few samples crafted by Colleen Rice. She calls her fused glass jewelry “Blissful Bits” because she’s in her happy place when working on them. She first creates the fused glass pendant using various techniques, usually involving multiple kiln firings, and then beads the coordinating necklace and earrings. Prices start at $5 for earrings and top out at $30.

Her family hopes that some sell so she can return to her happy place next winter to make some more. Life is better for all of them when Colleen’s in her happy place.

"Hunting Knife and Sheath"

There is something for everyone at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show! This hunting knife was handcrafted by Asa Kelley - the same Asa Kelley who wrangled high-voltage electricity as a lineman for Sierra Pacific Power before retiring to wrangle cattle on his DYMN Ranch in Peavine while also performing with the Peavine Pickers.

The knife began its life as a high-carbon farrier rasp. Asa slowly transformed the rasp by painstakingly grinding and sanding it into this perfectly sized, comfortably weighted and extremely sharp hunting knife. He fashioned the handle from elk horn. The sheath is made from heavy duty leather and is machine stitched. The strength of the high carbon steel ensures that this knife will hold its edge.

This hunting knife and sheath will be sold at silent auction starting June 29th and concluding on July 4th. The minimum opening bid is $50.

“Winter Gift” - photograph by Ruthi Kelley

The Creator gave Ruthi Kelley a very special gift one morning last winter - a gift of pogonip - and Ruthi wisely chose to delay her plans in order to accept and enjoy her gift. Lucky for us, she had the presence of mind to capture this photo so that she could share the joy with us.

Ruthi Kelley is a third generation Nevadan born in Elko and raised in and around Tonopah. Ruthi is a retired legal secretary/paralegal, but is still busy helping her husband, Asa, on their ranch and being there for their 43 nieces and nephews.

Be sure to stop by our Silent Auction Gallery to enjoy the 11” x 14” metal print of Ruthi Kelley’s “Winter Gift”.

"Table Runners"

Sometimes we have to say, “It’s beautiful but I can’t afford it.” This is NOT one of those times.

These beautiful table runners will be on sale in the Craft Store. At about 14” by 41” they are the perfect size for almost any table. They are made from high quality quilting cotton in a variety of themes including dog lovers, cat lovers, Christmas, cowboys, and winter.

And here’s the icing on the cake - they cost $15 for one, $25 for 2, $40 for 3 and $50 for 4. So go ahead and splurge guilt free. You might just need one in every theme. And how about hostess gifts? Hairdresser, manicurist and teacher gifts? Sticking stuffers? You simply can’t bet the quality and the price, plus we have 38 in stock so feel free to stock up.

And don’t worry if your table runner literally gets smeared with icing - it’s reversible. And laundering is easy once both sides are dirty. Wash in cold water, dry on low and press.

Janet Howe, an Oregonian raised in Boston sewed all of these table runners. Janet has no ties to Nevada but she fell in love with the Belmont Courthouse during her first visit and believes in the mission to restore it. She hopes that future generations of Nevadan children will visit the courthouse and establish the same kinship with history she developed during childhood field trips around Boston.

Thank you, Janet, for helping we Nevadans preserve our history. And thank for sewing and donating all of these table runners!

"Nevada Pride Earrings"

Introducing another way to show off your Nevada pride - wear some Nevada Pride Earrings! Colleen Rice made these fused glass earrings in the shape of Nevada and dressed them up with a pewter charm - either a heart or a star. The wires are silver coated stainless steel. The cost is $12 a pair.

"Nevada Pride Cufflinks"

We’re always on the lookout for new ways to wear Nevada pride, so when a Facebook comment informed us of a need for Nevada Pride Cufflinks, Colleen Rice got busy. These are made from fused glass, 4mm thick, about 1/2” from Reno to Ely and 3/4” from San Jacinto to Las Vegas. They are indigo blue in color and have traditional metal cufflink hardware. Their face is plain because we want the jury listening to you and not trying to figure out if that’s a heart on your cufflink. $15 a pair.

"Small Nevada Pride Necklaces"

We know the last thing you need is a smaller Nevada Pride necklace, but sometimes it’s nice to have one. These beaded 16” necklaces have a small cobalt blue fused glass Nevada pendant with a shiny heart inside. Colleen Rice made ten of them for sale at the cost of $15 each. No two are alike because she gets bored quickly.

"Wild Mustang"

There is no more potent symbol of the West than a wild horse and our state of Nevada is blessed with more wild horses than the rest of the country combined. “Wild Mustang” was created by Nathan and Amy Arnold of Big Smoky Valley. The Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show is pleased to share the work of these local artisans with you.

Nathan is a third generation underground hard rock miner, born and raised in Colorado. Amy hails from the East Coast and rigorously trained to be a professional ballerina. After love intervened in 1997, they merged their paths and have simultaneously specialized in both artistic and mining pursuits. They have worked in a variety of underground mines but returned to Round Mountain Gold last year where they are both employed. Along the way, they’ve owned their own metal art business creating both flatwork pieces and sculptures.

Take a moment to enjoy their flatwork piece, “Wild Mustang”. Did your mind take you to the smell of morning dew and fresh air? Did you feel the freedom, the strength, the intelligence of this magnificent being? Then you received what Amy and Nathan were trying to give you.

Now take a closer look and marvel at the precise cutting and coloring. Notice how their artistry and skill turned a one dimensional cold piece of mild steel into the beauty of “Wild Mustang”.

Please come and see this extraordinary 11” x 16” piece of metal art in the Silent Auction Gallery at the Belmont Courthouse, beginning June 29. The auction will close on July 4th and “Wild Mustang” will then go to his new home to remain forever untamed.

"Rufous Hummingbird on a Hummingbird Vine” - wood carving by master carver, Janet Johnson"

The Friends of the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show is extremely lucky to call master carver, Janet Johnson, its friend. Janet now lives in Washington, but a large part of her heart remains in her native Nevada.

Janet is especially known for carving intricate birds and for several years, Janet has worked all year on a special carving that she donates to the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show. This year she is donating “Rufous Hummingbird on a Hummingbird Vine”.

If you were to spend a year carving a bird, you’d want it to be a special bird, wouldn’t you? A Rufous Hummingbird most certainly qualifies. Although one of the smaller hummingbird breeds - about 3.1” in length and only 0.07 to 0.176 of an ounce in weight - they are one of the feistiest breeds of North American hummingbirds. Rufous Hummingbirds are often seen protecting their flowers and feeders from other hummers twice their weight. There are reports of Rufous Hummingbirds chasing chipmunks away from their nests.

Another claim to Rufous Hummingbird fame is how far they travel annually. They typically winter in the southern part of Mexico and are the only hummingbird breed who often breed as far north as Alaska. Their annual clockwise circuit of western North America takes them north up the Pacific Coast, often as far as Alaska, before turning around and flying south down the chain of the Rocky Mountains back again to Mexico. That is an annual distance of up to 8,000 miles or 163,509,677.4 bird lengths. If you are 6’ tall and traveled 163,509,677.4 people lengths, you’d go 185,806 miles or 7.47 times around the equator.

The Rufous Hummingbird is not just worthy of Janet spending a year of her life carving, owning “Rufous Hummingbird on a Hummingbird Vine” will provide a lifetime of inspiration.

Please come and experience “Rufous Hummingbird on a Hummingbird Vine”. Look at this tiny bird and remember its stamina. It will be displayed in the Silent Auction Gallery beginning June 29th. The minimum bid will be $500 and the auction will close on July 4th at 3:00 PM.

Janet carved the bird, leaves and flowers from wood. The primary feathers on the wings were each individually carved and then carefully inset into the wing. The branch is constructed from metal, wood putty and paper. The sculpture is mounted on a piece of spalted maple. The total height is about 13”. The width is roughly 7”. The spalted base is 2.5” x 2”.

While Janet spent a year carving, an actual Rufuos Hummingbird flew about 8,000 miles. I’m not sure which feat is more miraculous.

"Nevada Pride Birdhouse"

Just listed! This new construction single family home won’t stay on the market long. Its modern open floor plan and durable metal roof (vintage Nevada license plate) make it a perfect rental property for Mountain Bluebirds. Striking street appeal is provided by the Nevada State Seal.

This unique residence is donated by Tom and Phyllis Cates, retired Reno educators and long time Belmont Courthouse Boosters. Phyllis and Tom support many philanthropic organizations but we at the Belmont Courthouse are sure they like us best. The talented home builder was Clarence (Casey) Pric of Sparks, Nevada.

Take a tour of this beautiful property during the Arts and Crafts Show scheduled for June 29th through July 4th. Although suitable for outdoor use, it’s so cute you’ll be tempted to keep it indoors.

"Signed and numbered print by John Maddox"

You need to see this signed and numbered print in person in order to adequately appreciate it. Lucky for you, it’ll be easy to find in the Silent Auction Gallery at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show. The print is by avid hunter and retired Army Ranger, John Maddox. Originally from Brookhaven, Mississippi, John now lives in New Orleans where he pursues his passions of helping others and creating art.

John has combined these two passions by creating Project Blackjack, a non-profit that gives backpacks filled with necessities to homeless LGBT youth in New Orleans. To help fund Project Backpack, John donates proceeds from the sales of his artwork. His popularity on social media has led to an audience of admirers spreading Project Backpack to two more US cities. John donated this print to the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show in response to Tony and Dianne Romano’s donation to Project Backpack.

"Dragon Egg"

You’re looking at a mysterious, rare and valuable Dragon Egg - made famous by Game of Thrones and interpreted here by native Nevadan, Tim Terras. Tim grew up in Tonopah and attended UNR. He now works as a Process Foreman for the Gold Quarry Mine in Northern Nevada where he lives with his wife, Lynne, and sons, Jim and Joe.

Tim Terras and Belmont go way back. As a kid, he spent summers in Belmont with his grandparents, Bob and Betty Frank, and his brother, Travis. Belmont has a way of teaching kids important lessons. Tim learned that the Belmont Courthouse isn’t just an old building; it’s a testament to the early settlers and miners who built it. As an adult, he understands the need to preserve the old Courthouse so that one day his grandkids can learn those same lessons.

Tim’s many hobbies include working with wood. He can patiently look at his woodpile until the right piece speaks to him. One such day, this piece of Juniper silently said that it held the makings of a Dragon Egg. It took the addition of resin and countless hours of loving labor - but ever so slowly, Dragon Egg emerged.

Come and see the majesty of Tim Terras’ Dragon Egg in the Silent Auction Gallery at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show. The minimum opening bid will be $100. I think we’re all lucky that Daenerys won’t be attending.

"Wire Wrapped Jewelry "

This beautiful wire wrapped jewelry was crafted by Lenee Perez of Reno and is being donated to the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show by Karen Thompson.

Its enchantment lies in both the artistic wire wrapping and the underlying crystals, including Smoky Quartz, Amethyst and Rhodonite. Many believe that crystals hold special attributes that are bestowed upon those who wear them.

Smoky Quartz dissipates blocked energy and negativity, providing a mild sedative effect, helping the wearer relax. Amethyst is the crystal of spirituality and contentment, bestowing stability, strength and inner peace. Rhodonite is an emotional balancer that nurtures love and encourages the brotherhood of humanity.

Whether or not you believe in the power of crystals, here’s a fact that is indisputable - this jewelry is absolutely beautiful! You’ll find 9 pieces of Lenee’s wire wrapped crystal jewelry in the Craft Store at the Belmont Arts and Crafts Show.

"Own a piece of the Belmont Courthouse!"

Dianne Romano, part time resident of Belmont’s southern suburbs, has vision. When she noticed lath hanging precipitously from the Belmont Courthouse ceilings, she saw valuable restoration funds. She asked for the chance to turn that lath into her vision but as we all know, prophets are not recognized in their own hometowns, and the dangling lath was instead repeatedly taken to the Belmont dump.

Last year was no exception until Dianne learned that the removed lath was at the dump early enough to save it. So Dianne fired up her side-by-side, rode defiantly through town, and brought home as much lath from the dump as that side-by-side could carry.

And then she cut lath. And she painted lath. And she got Tony and Eileen and Tay and probably others to help her cut and paint. And they made USA flags. And they made garden stakes. And they made plaques shaped like Nevada. And then their lath projects were sold during the Friends of the Belmont Courthouse Labor Day Celebration to the tune of $555.00.

And lo the message was received - Dianne knows how to turn old 1876 lath into 21st century restoration funds. Don’t expect to find lath at the dump anymore - it’s being delivered to Dianne and she worked all winter on a new supply of wonderful lath products.

Here is a photo of one of the USA flags Dianne and Company made from Belmont Courthouse lath. Flags like this and a selection of other products made from 1876 Belmont Courthouse lath will be available at the Arts and Crafts Show. Come and buy your very own special piece of Belmont Courthouse history. And then search out and thank Dianne Romano for her vision and persistence.

"Beaded Necklace"

The Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show is proud to welcome Sue Dobson to our growing list of contributors. Sue is part time resident of Manhattan, part time resident of Henderson and a full time beader. Sue has been beading for about 20 years and teaches beading at the Southern Nevada Gem & Mineral Society of which she’s a member.

Take a close look at this incredible necklace - a real close look. It’s length is adjustable from 16” to 22”.

Now guess - how many beads does it contain? How many beads did Sue need to pick up and string in order to create this intricate beauty?

Do you have a number in mind? I suggest you double it. Maybe even triple it because there are 1,716 beads in this wonderful necklace. There are 173 glass pearls, 44 glass dagger beads, 257 two hole glass beads, 42 hematite beads, and 1,200 (give or take a couple) glass seed beads.

This exquisite necklace will be available at the Belmont Courthouse Arts and Crafts Show. Come and double check my count - I double dog dare you.

"Historic Boudoir Photograph - 19” x 24” Framed"

Those who remember the Tonopah Club bar will fondly remember the boudoir photograph hanging in our Silent Auction Gallery. You will not want to miss this extraordinary opportunity to own this tantalizing piece of Tonopah’s history. Andrea Robb-Grulli shares the following fascinating story about the photographed woman’s legendary life: