Union Grove

What’s a little rain with art to enjoy?

 

Artists working in painting, ceramics, jewelry, wood, fibers, photography and glass showcased their talent Oct. 19 for the first inaugural River’s Edge Art Walk in downtown Waterford. Paintings on display (above) at Riverside Chiropractic by artist Tom Shropshire fascinate browsers. (Howard Bryant photo)

River’s Edge Art Walk a success in spite of uncooperative weather

The Oct. 19 River’s Edge Art Walk drew about 500 people intent on ignoring pesky raindrops while enjoying dozens of original pieces of art on display throughout downtown Waterford.

Organizers now are looking ahead to next year, imagining an even greater turnout if Mother Nature can agree to be a bit more cooperative next time.

This year’s inaugural art walk exceeded expectations, said Michelle Bores-Stockton, Executive Director of Absolutely Waterford, which sponsored the art walk.

The event was organized as a way to bring greater awareness to the businesses and local artists working in the community, she explained.

“We are very excited that our first event was so well received, with so many people coming out to weather the rain and partake in the festivities.”

To make this all happen took months of planning, she added.

Members of the River’s Edge Art Walk Guild collaborated with many local businesses, as well as area artists and musicians.

“This event also could not have happened without the generosity of our event sponsors, Runzheimer and Edstrom and our operational sponsor, Racine Community Foundation,” said Bores-Stockton.

Friday night, local businesses hosted 30 artists exhibiting a diverse variety of artwork, ranging from watercolor and oil paintings to carved wooden sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewelry and more.

Some artists shared with visitors their expertise of the art media in which they work, while others demonstrated their craft to browsers.

Throughout the downtown, musicians made a joyful noise at different locations and many businesses and artists provided beverages and treats for patrons to enjoy as they strolled through the gallery areas, she said.

“It was so great to see our community and visitors come out on a wet, fall evening to enjoy the talents of local artists and musicians. Waterford was at its best!”  said Marybeth Mikrut, of the Racine Community Foundation.

By evening’s end, it was obvious that the artists, patrons and businesses are already looking forward to Waterford’s next River’s Edge Art Walk, said Bores-Stockton.

Anyone interested in volunteering for the 2013 River’s Edge Art Walk or other Absolutely Waterford events can visit the Absolutely Waterford website:  www.absolutelywaterford.org or call the office at (262) 534-5911.

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