The LO Festival of the arts was founded in 1963, making this years show the 61st. It’s a real highlight of the year here in LO. The purpose of the festival is to showcase local art and artists, and to provide arts education for the entire community. This year’s event is happening June 21-23. It is being held in two locations. The Lakewood Center for the arts is located at 368 S State Street. The second location is right across the street in George Roger’s Park.
Every year there is a featured exhibit. This year’s is called “Imagine That”. It’s a really intriguing idea and pretty different from what they have done in the past. This year local school children, grades K-8, have been asked to create imaginary animals. Those drawings in turn have been given to professional artists who have re-imagined them using their own unique style. It will be really fascinating to see how one creation is transformed into a second one.
A second exhibit is called Open Hearts Big Dreams. It is a exhibit in which 17 artists have been invited to to paint and draw artwork that features “Ethiopian Dances”. Some of the art is being made during the exhibit, and some of it will be completed before. The work will be compiled into a book to be shared with families in Ethiopia.
Then there is the open show. It’s held in a big tent at the Lakewood Center. This is a juried exhibit for local artists. We have amazing talent in the Pacific Northwest and there are always some absolutely gorgeous work. Much of it is offered for sale, so it’s a great place to expand your own collection.
Across the street at George Roger’s Park is the “Art in the Park”. With over 100 booths of local craftsman selling their creations. There are also 2 stages where music is performed all weekend. This is also where you’ll find food and beverages available to round out your afternoon.
Parking can be tight, so there is a shuttle bus that allows you to park off site and get a ride to the event. For a pdf of the shuttle stops, click here.
Festival hours are Friday and Saturday, 9:00-6:00, and Sunday, 9:00-5:00. The festival is free admission. For more information, click here.
I hope to see your there!
Dianne