Maine Crafts Guild hosts its annual Damariscotta Fine Crafts Show on Saturday and Sunday, July 19 and 20, at the Central Lincoln County YMCA, 525 Main Street. Known for excellence in their craft, more than 30 artists will exhibit work for sale over the course of two days.

An astounding array of exquisitely made pieces for the home, the body and the heart will be for sale, including works in glass, clay, wood, precious stones and metals, paper and fiber, all superbly designed, produced and handmade in Maine. The show is a unique opportunity to meet and visit with leading potters, jewelers, weavers, carvers, printers and other crafts specialists, and learn, firsthand, about their process and work.

“People come to Guild shows expecting the best work, because that's what we do," said Tom Dahlke of Bath, a master woodworker and exhibitor. “The beauty of coming to a show is that the person who makes the work is standing right there in front of you. You get to connect.”

Now in its fifth year, the Damariscotta show is one of four exhibitions the guild will host this season. The guild’s mission is to support and further Maine’s long heritage of excellence in craft making through statewide shows. Members gain entrance to the Maine Crafts Guild through a jury process that recognizes the highest quality of skill and craft.

Craftspeople featured in guild shows include winners of awards such as the Switchback Ranch Purchase Award (Western Design Conference, WY), and Best in Weaving (Living with Craft Exhibit), and honored artists in numerous juried exhibitions and biennials.

Work for sale at a guild show can range in price from under $50 into the thousands of dollars. The experienced crafts collector, as well as the simply curious, can all find one-of-a-kind pieces at a guild show. The guild hosts three other shows in the state, through early November: MDI Directions, August 1-3; Scarborough, September 13-14; and Augusta, November 1-2.

Admission in Damariscotta is $6; under 18, free. Visit www.mainecraftsguild.com for details, and a list of exhibitors by medium and information on all upcoming Maine Crafts Guild Shows.