Beresteyn Fair

Beresteyn Fair is a yearly art event held during the first week of summer in Madamsrest. During this event wealthy Madamresters prove their patronage by funding experienced painters to take in a child between the age of 12-18, for a week to hone their skills with the brush. At the end of the week everyone gathers once more to display the paintings painted by the children, in addition the paintings are actioned off. The tradition was first started in 1635 by Henriette van Beresteyn (?-1643), who used her fortune to organise the first renditions of the event. Since her passing the Beresteyn Fair has grown to become a popular summer tradition in Madamsrest. 
== Event ==
The first Sunday of the summer marks the start for Beresteyn Fair. On this day Madamresters will gather in the main square of the city to witness the opening event, during which the talented painters and the children will be introduced to the spectators. The children are assigned to a painter and the painting theme of the year will be revealed. The day ends with a banquet and the next day the first brushed will touch the canvas. On the following Sunday everyone will reconvene for the closing ceremony. One by one the paintings will be revealed, which is followed by an auction. While the paintings might not be of such qualities, as if they were made by a master painter, they're nonetheless very popular to own. Who wouldn't want a painting by a protege of a master painter? Besides, that protege might turn out to become a master painter themselves one day. 
== History ==
The event would not have been possible with the more than generous donations from Henriette van Beresteyn. - Madamsrester historian.The first rendition of the Beresteyn Fair started in 1635 with a large donation by Henriette van Beresteyn. Beresteyn herself was left without any relatives, yet wanted to leave a legacy on the city of Madamsrest. Therefore she decided to donated most of her wealth to setup what would become the Beresteyn Fair. With the money she funded the first banquets and provided stipend to the painters. As the fair grew in popularity Beresteyn made sure to slightly alter the event customs, requiring any patron that wants to join the auction to donate a small sum of money. In addition, she managed to petition the city of Madamsrest to likewise donate money to the fair.
Category:Madamsrest
Category:Alex
Category:Event