Edison Estates opens Caretaker's House

For the past several years the Edison & Ford Winter Estates has opened the Edison Caretaker's House for a special project and show called "Creative Cottage" which is part of the activities of the Estates Holiday House. The Estates invites a group of talented artists and authors who have been involved with the Estates in various ways during the year including teaching in the Edison Caretaker's House and on the site.

In addition to the gathering of art this year, the Estates is also showcasing some new projects including Estates Jams and Jellies, Banyan Bark (fine chocolate with a historical and scientific legacy), the Estates Cookbook, live orchids (much beloved by the Edison's) and historical plants.

The result is the historic Edison Caretaker's House (originally built in 1873 and just recently restored) will be transformed into "Creative Cottage" with a vibrant show of artistic work celebrating the creative spirit in southwest Florida. For collectors, the scope of work includes painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, painted furniture, jewelry, clothing items and books. The artists donate part of the sales to help the Estates to underwrite the many education programs at the Estates including Estates Summer Camp.

This year, "Creative Cottage" will open early on the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, Nov. 23 and will be open during the day from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. On November 30th "Creative Cottage" will be open from 2 p.m. - 9. "Creative Cottage" will be open thru 2008. A shopper's pass will be available at the ticket area for residents who wish to come and browse during the day. During the evenings, the artists will be available to talk with visitors about their work as well as personalize purchases. The artists include the following:

• Ralph Bigletti - Large three-dimensional sculpture integrating found objects

• Manfred Behr - Photographs of tropical landscapes, large scale images of flowers, plants, many from the Estates

• Teri Causey - Nautical painted furniture and other items

• Charlie Freese - Hand made furniture and wood sculpture, painted

• Sandra Galloway - Original watercolor and prints with a nature theme

• Chad Moriaty - Blown glass ornaments, lamps and bowls

• Carol Nahoom - Fused glass bowls and objects

• Bill North - Original paintings and prints of southwest Florida including the Edison and Ford historic homes

• Tom Smoot - Author of The Edisons of Fort Myers

During Holiday House the homes and estates of Thomas and Mina Edison and Henry and Clara Ford will be open nightly from 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. The event also includes nightly performances of dance, instrumental and choral music (by area groups and schools) and holiday items in the Creative Cottage, Museum Store, Garden Shoppe and the historic Cottage Shoppe. The Estates Museum and Edison's Lab will be open nightly as well as the Estates Banyan Café for refreshments. Tickets are $15 for adults and $1 for children (6-12). Groups may schedule special times and group rates.

The Estates is open daily 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. For additional information call 334-7419 or visit the Web site at www.efwefla.org. ¦