It’s not junk-it’s “junque.”
That’s the term Gooseberry Fair event coordinator, Chrissy Clancy, corrected me with when I asked about the type of items and antiques showcased at the fair Saturday afternoon. “Repurposing is such a big thing. Re-using old plates, its all about recycle and re-purpose,” said Clancy. The fair was a chance for local vendors and collectors to setup shop for $5 for the entire day, and sell pretty much anything they want-or deem as valuable. The fair featured live folk music, Victorian lemonade and cookies and snacks for visitors. “People have the opportunity to purchase and to sell. I get really passionate about my ‘junque,’ I don’t think enough people get a chance to appreciate it,” said Clancy. For the people who did think that their items were more then simply junk, Colony Shop Antiques & Art business owner and appraiser, Ed Becker, from Fayetteville, was present at the fair. He appraised approximately 50 to 70 items throughout the day, with some items that were priced out as being worth close to $1,000. “It’s about having an eye,” said Becker. “You’re able to look at something and know the quality of it.” Becker’s certified as an antiques appraiser by the Unified Student of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Clancy is a senior coordinator for the Town of Clay.