Toque Puts the Art in Artsy

The Western Front’s Annual Craft fair drops this weekend.

We’re deep into craft fair season and what was once passed as a cute little weekend excursion has now morphed into big business. Convention centres are now part of the equation. But, not to sound like ‘ol Uncle Joe…bigger ain’t always better. It shouldn’t surprise you that we here are a fans of careful editing, like the sort practiced by the organizers of Toque.  Thirty tables, every one a winner in their genre.The curation shouldn’t be a surprise—Toque is organized by The Western Front, one of the most thought-provoking art institutions (although they’d hate being called an institution) in the country—with genre-pushing exhibits dealing with contemporary art and new music. So when they decided to launch a small craft fair a few years ago to coincide with their annual membership drive, it quickly carved out a niche as a place where the thoughtful shopper is matched with dedicated artisans. But don’t take out word for it, check out some of these wares:The full list of exhibitors is here. Toque runs from November 30 to December 2. And while you’re at it, buck up for a membership—you’ll be supporting a very cool “institution.”