Photographer Alison Stager is among the dozens of vendors at...

Photographer Alison Stager is among the dozens of vendors at the 2011 Father's Day Art and Crafts Fair in Sag Harbor. (June 18, 2011) Credit: Lisa Finn

Each of Steven Peller’s handmade journals - crafted with leaves, woven baskets and Indonesian vine - are pieces that come from the heart.

Peller was among the dozens of vendors who set up his crafts Saturday at the 2011 Father’s Day Arts and Crafts Fair which ran through Sunday at Marine Park on Bay Street in Sag Harbor. He said each journal takes several days to complete – and is the work of a dedicated craftsman.

"For me, when you look at our handicrafts, they seem almost eternal," said Peller of Brookville. Being able to express creativity while integrating all natural, eco-friendly materials into his designs is a labor of love, he said.

Sag Harbor photographer Alison Stager said the images of the East End evoke a deep emotional connection and creativity. Many of her photos are taken when she is driving by a site that captures her heart.

"I’ll stop the car and say ‘Oh, my God, look at that,’" she said.

Photography is Stager’s "great passion." And the East End, she said, inspires.

"This place is very special to me."

With an eclectic array of arts and crafts including doggy bandanas, handmade jewelry, artwork, hats, carnivorous plants that eat pesky bugs, and glassware, the festival is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

"It’s fun to see what’s local," said East Hampton resident Brian O’Reilly. "You get the vibe of the community."

Allen Fruitstone, vice president of the Sag Harbor of Chamber of Commerce, said the fair has been going on for over 20 years

And for Montauk photographer Jillian Rennar, the fair is a chance to exhibit her photos, from a wide range of locations including Amagansett and Montauk to vistas on the international canvas, including the Caribbean and Italy.

"I like meeting people," she said. "There are so many different people and stories here."

Pictured above: Photographer Alison Stager is among the vendors at the 2011 Father's Day Art and Crafts Fair in Sag Harbor. (June 18, 2011) 

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