Artsfair has been taking place in Bellevue since 1947, and this year it features 90 new exhibitors among more than 300 juried artists, both local and national. One of this years prizewinners is Whittier, California jeweler Eric Silva, whose chunky, dramatic, sculptural pieces incorporate antlers, recycled wood, and semi-precious stones. One of his necklaces features a string of oversize aquamarine beads disappearing into a deer-antler Y; oxidized stainless steel loops hang from the bottom of the antler, while the whole thing is clasped together with ruby-tipped, sterling silver circles. At the other artist booths, youll find wooden teakettles, unusual knit scarves, nested ceramic bowls, and playful glass vases, as well as painting, photography, and prints. Its an indoor/outdoor fest (through Sunday), with food booths and stuff for the kids, too. Exhibits and activities extend over to Bellevue Square; and just north of the mall (at Cost Plus World Market), the crafts-oriented Bellevue Festival of the Arts also runs concurrently. ADRIANA GRANT
July 24-26, 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m., 2009
