Organizers are describing it as a “perfect storm” — a mighty spring storm of creative art and festivities that will hit West Point Saturday when the West Point/Clay County Arts Council presents the first annual Historic Downtown Art Walk.
Fifty fine artists and craftspeople will display and sell their work in businesses on West Point’s Commerce Street April 13. The variety encompasses paintings, jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, photography, graphic arts, stained glass, basketry and wood crafts. Live music at varying locations by Joe Jordan, Layna Shackelford and Tim “Mookie” Wilson begins at 9 a.m.
The Art Walk is modeled after similar events staged in “art meccas” such as Carmel, Calif., and Sedona, Ariz.
“We want West Point to become one of those ‘art meccas,’ too,” said Arts Council Board President Monte Brasfield. “A true art walk is all about the ambiance, quality art, expanding horizons and interacting with artists to become more informed and enlightened,” he added.
Art Walk Chair Vickie Burris is pleased with the response from both artists and business owners.
“The enthusiasm with which everyone I’ve spoken with about this event is just overwhelming,” Burris said. “The artists can’t wait to set up and share their art, and businesses embraced the idea from the beginning.”
Sally Kate Winters Family Services will join the downtown festivities, hosting their fourth annual 5K run and other family-friendly activities during the day in Sally Kate Winters Park.
Restaurants have gotten in the spirit, too. The Ritz Café, Twisted Burger Company and Main Street Market have created special lunch menus for the Art Walk.
Evening concert
A ticketed concert by HanaLena, featuring sisters and Starkville natives Hannah and Caroline Melby, now of Nashville, Tenn., starts at 7 p.m. at Center Stage in Central School, 634 E. Westbrook St. Tickets are $15 for adults. Those under 18 are admitted free of charge, when accompanied by an adult purchasing a ticket. Those 65 and older may also attend for free. Get tickets at the door, or at CulinArts or Petal Pushers in West Point. Or call 662-494-5678.
The Art Walk is partially funded by a grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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