Calling all ArtWalk artists
By Contributor
It was 30 years ago when a team of entrepreneurs created an event that, little did they know, would last more than three decades.
This event was ArtWalk, which has grown and changed, but still remains focused on showcasing local artists and venues and exposing our community to great art. The first year of ArtWalk was only three weeks long; now the event lasts more than 11 weeks and is one of the largest free events in the City.
Over the years ArtWalk has grown to incorporate live music, food, performance art and dancing. The downtown core becomes a hub of activity with live poetry readings, dance performances and musicians.
At the 1988 ArtWalk there was a group show venue, which housed a piece from each participating artist. Organizers are bringing this fabulous idea back for the 30th year celebration with Touchstones Museum of Art and History acting as that venue.
This year for the 30th Anniversary — Friday, June 29th to Sunday September 9th there will be more artist and venues than ever before. ArtWalk will feature two opening galas. The first opening night on Friday, June 29th will feature live dance, musical performances, face painting, and hula hoppers roaming the streets and entertaining art lovers on their journey from venue to venue.
The Nelson and District Arts Council has teamed up with the West Kootenay EcoSociety for the second opening night to host the Stanley Street Art Stage during the July MarketFest on Friday, July 27th. Also during this second opening each artist’s work will also be rotated to a different venue, creating a whole new ArtWalk experience.
Artists eager to participate in ArtWalk are advised of the Deadline for submissions of Friday, April 20th at 5 p.m.
Photo Caption: ArtWalk organizers Stephanie Myers and Anne DeGrace want to encourage artists to enter by April 20th. — Submitted
