Fifth Teddy Bear Reunion
Once again, the Teddy Bear Reunion in the Heartland will be presented in Clarion, Iowa June 10-13, 2010! The brainchild of Iowa Guild member and celebrated teddy bear artist Steve Schutt, the convention and show has been produced by the town of Clarion every five years since 1990. When I say the whole town produces the show, I mean residents plan and staff the event, residents house artists and conventioneers, and businesses participate.
Teddy Bear Reunion in the Heartland is the largest teddy bear convention in the world! As many as 22,000 teddy bear enthusiasts have descended upon this Iowa town for the convention in previous years. Not only that, but in true small town Iowa fashion, the TBRH is staffed and produced entirely by volunteers and all proceeds go to charity!
The convention emphasizes the teddy bear as an art form. There are opportunities for artists to stretch their imaginations, think out of the box, and truly present their very best effort. This is a wonderful opportunity for collectors to score some exceptional pieces for their collections.
If you are not so much into the art aspect, vendors will also offer antique bears, manufactured bears, and bear-related collectibles.
Lots of Activities
This is more than just a teddy bear sale. The convention offers an array of great activites. If you love teddy bears, you can't miss this event. It's all integrated with the town's annual Festival in the Park, so there are activites in Gazebo Park, a parade, special exhibits at the Heartland Museum and I'll bet you can find some homemade pie! It's a fun event for the whole family!
Workshops
A full day of workshops is offered. You can stop in for a quick Make & Take project, spend the day making a golliwog and his pig, or learn more about collecting and displaying your bears.
Spectacular Bear Exhibit
This popular exhibit is enjoyed by everyone. The artists have been challenged to stretch their imaginations and bring a piece that exemplifies their very best work for this special exhibit. Many of these pieces are offered for sale, so you could take one home for your own collection!
Admission to this special exhibit is included with your convention registration or tickets can be purchased at the door. Proceeds from admissions go to charity.
Auction
All exhibitors are required to provide an auction piece. The theme for the auction this time is "Holidays". This is a good chance to add a fabulous piece to your collection for your holiday decorating! Half of each winning bid goes to charity and half to the artist. (See auction pieces by Iowa Teddy Bear Makers Guild Members)
Admission to the auction is free, but registered conventioneers get early admission, the first look at the auction preview, and first choice of seating.
How to Register for the Convention
To register for the convention, fill out a Collector Registration form and mail it in! If you'd like more information, please email TBRH2010@yahoo.com.