Two Fairfax County artists are among the more than 300 juried artists, artisans and craftspersons of all media whose works are for sale at the Winter Capital Art and Craft Festival, produced by event management company SPARGO Inc. and returning to the Dulles Expo Center from Dec. 13-15.

Saul Cieza of Chantilly is a first-time exhibitor at the festival with his bold and vibrant oil-on-canvas paintings. Oakton-based jewelry designer Odaybea Morrow is a seasoned artist whose creative designs mix gemstones and precious metals in innovative settings. Her work gives a fresh viewpoint on the world of jewelry creation.

"There's no more special holiday gift than something made by an artist's hands," said Capital Art and Craft Show manager Judy Spargo. "That kind of gift is, literally, one of a kind."

Cieza's works reflect his love for nature and human achievements. Born in a country that treasures Machu

The Winter Capital Art & Craft Festival, taking place at Dulles Expo Center, will include more than 300 juried artists and vendors, including Oakton's own Odaybea Morrow. Seated at her jeweler's workbench, she uses a loupe to check the precision and quality of her distinctive gemstone piece.

 

Picchu, the 15th-century Inca city located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, Cieza's works are a testament to his passion. They do not concentrate on a single style but rather celebrate his diverse interests and inspirations. "I try to explore different perspectives to project the elements of the world around us," Cieza said. Shoppers can find Cieza at Booth 343.

For Morrow, 2024 is her third year showcasing her jewelry at the Winter Capital Art and Craft Festival as a local artist. Morrow will present some of her newest designs at Booth 643. Morrow says making jewelry releases her creative energies, which are influenced by intrinsic designs found in nature and years of living in Africa, Central Asia, and Europe. She uses an array of techniques. “My work, which is made with precious metals and gemstones, is distinctive in its use of textures and rich colors. It is a process of ebb and flow with moments of utter frustration during the process and moments of absolute fulfillment when a piece, in its final stage, resonates with someone and brings them joy,” says Morrow. 

The Capital Art and Craft Festival offers diverse art and craft treasures, from paintings and prints to pottery and decor. Whether shoppers are fans of woodworking, glass art, clothing/textiles, photography, or mixed media, there's something for everyone at this event, even a tasty treat.

Take a break and enjoy a drink from a beverage artist, or stop by one of the specialty vendors showcasing foods, such as a sweet taste of Europe, at The Passionate Baker, which features pastries made from scratch. Then, before you leave, be sure to stop by one of the booths of natural, handcrafted, small-batch products, such as honey made from Virginia bees at Edgewood Apiaries & Farm, to take home with you.

The festival is open to the public, and parking is free and plentiful. Tickets are available now, and discounts are available for senior citizens; children under the age of 12 are admitted at no charge. Tickets are valid for all three days. Show hours at the South Hall are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 online and $12.00 in person. Visit www.CACF.art.