Blues, funk and gypsy jazz on the bandstand; over 140 artists from around the nation selling paintings, jewelry and more; cutting-edge dance; storytellers and improvisational comedy; a parade and balloon art for kids – these are just a few of the activities at the 22nd annual Decatur Arts Festival set for Memorial Day weekend, May 28-30, 2010.
This interactive, inclusive arts extravaganza, presented by the Decatur Arts Alliance, includes art and artists from all disciplines and features hands-on participatory art as well as demonstrating and performing arts. All events are free. A number of festival events will take place throughout the month of May leading up to the final weekend. Come join in the fun.
Poster Unveiling – Thursday, May 6, 5-7pm – Free and open to the public, the Poster Unveiling is the official beginning of the Decatur Arts Festival. This year’s poster was painted by local artist James Dean best known for his whimsical Pete the Cat paintings. Attendees will be the first to view the festival poster and have a poster signed. Come meet Mr. Dean and enjoy complimentary beverages and food.
ArtWalk – Held on the evening of Friday, May 28, 5-10pm, before the weekend festival, the Decatur ArtWalk gives local businesses and galleries an opportunity to get involved. Attendees visit the local businesses that have invited an artist or have displayed a collection of art. Many offer complimentary food and beverages. Tunes will be playing from the Community Bandstand on the Square to give the evening a festive note.
Artists Market – Saturday, May 29, 10am-6pm, Sunday, May 30, 11am-6pm – Over 140 artists set up tents to display and sell their works on the Square in downtown Decatur. This highly competitive, juried show offers the best talent from all over the nation.
Performing Arts Stage – Saturday, May 29, 11am-5pm, Sunday, May 30, noon-5pm – Continuous performing arts every hour from the community bandstand on the Square. This year’s line-up includes performances by Larkin Poe, Scott Little Band, Jacob Jeffries Band, Morgan Rowe, Gwen Hughes & The Retro Jazz Katz, ConunDRUMS, JazzChronics, Swamp Funk Quartet, Bonaventure Quartet, Yonrico Scott Band, and Sewhe Village Percussion.
Fine Arts Exhibition – The 22nd annual juried Fine Arts Exhibition will open on May 25 and runs through June 6. The exhibition features works from more than 50 artists and is held at Agnes Scott College’s Dalton Gallery within walking distance from the weekend festival.
Kids and Teen’s Arts Festival – Saturday, May 29 ONLY, 9:45am-2:00pm – Plenty of fun for toddlers, elementary-aged kids and teens with lots of hands-on art projects, performers, balloon artists and a rock climbing wall. The Kids and Teen’s Festival kicks off with a Children’s Parade led by the city fire department. Come join in the parade!
Theater and Literary Arts Festival – May 21–May 30 – “Let Us Entertain You” is the theme for this year’s event. It is a celebration of theater and literary arts that includes short plays, improvisational comedy, poetry, storytelling, author readings and more. Events are held throughout the week in conjunction with the Georgia Center for the Book and include appearances by Robin Oliveira on May 21, John Sandford on May 24, Joe Dabney on May 25, and Mary Richardson on May 25. The Theater and Literary Arts Tent on the Old Courthouse lawn will be open all day Saturday and Sunday with a full line-up of performers for both adults and children. Family events are on Sunday.
The “Speak…Easy!” – Friday, May 28, 7-9 pm – This evening of storytelling and music for your soul and spirit, at the Old Courthouse on the Square, kicks off the theater and literary arts festival for the weekend. The evening is titled, “Pour It On—A Tasting of Stories and Other Libations.” Featured artists include Audrey Galex, Grace Hawthorne, Janice Butt, Jan Cribbs, Sharon Mathis, and Margaret Edinburgh.
New Dance Festival – The Beacon Dance Company will present three shows at the Beacon Hill Arts Center, 410 West Trinity Place on May 28, May 29, and May 30 at 8pm. These performances feature the newest works by local and national choreographers. With a roster of cutting-edge artists, Breaking New Ground promises a rich evening of thought- provoking entertainment and excitement. A reception will follow each performance. Seating is limited and reservations are strongly encouraged.
All events are free. For more information, visit www.decaturartsfestival.com
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