Michelle Purchase, printmaker, receiving her “Best of Show 2014” award.
Photo credit: Downtown Guelph Business Association
The arts came alive on the streets of downtown Guelph on Saturday, July 12. Close to 100 established and emerging artists showcased their talents in a range of disciplines in blacksmithing, pottery, paint, photography, textiles, sculpture and much more. It was the perfect opportunity to experience art, engage with artists and purchase art from such a vast artistic landscape.
The Children’s Arts Festival, organized by the Children’s Art Factory, at St. George’s Square featured a collection of activities to inspire and engage young minds. The Play With Clay craft bus – a festival favourite – was onsite, as well as the Guelph Public Library, Guelph School of Art, and the Suzuki String School of Guelph. Sculptor Ben McCarl also unveiled his latest work, Ascending Spirit.
The mood of the day was made complete by a variety of wandering musicians, great food and, of course, some sunshine was ordered for good measure. Several awards were also handed out later in the day:
Best of Show: Michelle Purchase, Printmaking
Best Booth: Clavaux Designs, Millinery
Honourable Mention: Glenn Rivison, Kinetic Sculpture
People’s Choice Award: Nancy Plummer, Driftwood and Papier Mache
Thank you to the teams from Downtown Guelph Business Association and Guelph Arts Council, as well as all of the volunteers involved, for the hard work in coordinating and facilitating this fantastic celebration of arts in Guelph.
By Noelle Lalonde
