Bayou City Art Festival Downtown 2017 hosted over 15,000 art enthusiasts

The heart of Houston celebrated 46 years with Bayou City Art Festival Downtown with art patrons, 7 non-profit partners, 600 volunteers, and 300 artists from all over the world 

In the surrounding area of City Hall, Hermann Square, Houston Public Library, Sam Houston Park, and adjacent streets, over 15,000 art enthusiasts took in the sights. The weekend festival raised thousands for local non-profits while patrons enjoyed the outdoors under the Downtown Houston skyline and had the opportunity to purchase unique art.

Bayou City Art Festival, produced by the Art Colony Association Inc. (ACA), is one of the top festivals in the U.S.

Across City Hall, patrons swooned over the festival’s featured artist Tony Paraná and his work.

Bayou City Art Festival also featured artwork by Linda Hamilton, Bethany Madrid, Patric Sleightolm and Ryan Wannamacher in the Rising Talent Artist tent. New this year, was Artist Boat offering guests the opportunity to paint trash barrels that will be placed along the Galveston Seawall.  

“Best in Show” went to Kaytha Potts (Fiber and Textiles, booth 355), followed by James Offeman (Pastels, booth 237) in second place and in third was Yan Lee (Pastels, booth 419). The “Best Booth” went to Mead Mc Lean (Painting, Acrylic or Oil, booth 128). The Museum of Fine Arts Houston Curatorial Award – Glass went to  William Ortman (booth 718). Awards were presented by Bridget Anderson, Executive Director of ACA.

The Children’s Creative Zone was also a hit with juggling and hula hoop performances, gigantic bubbles with Hilary Scullane (the “bubble” lady), face painting by Merry Makers and caricature art with Bonnie Blue.

ABOUT THE ART COLONY ASSOCIATION

During the past 46 years, ACA has provided unique art experiences and education for the greater Houston community by bringing diverse artists to urban Bayou City Art Festivals and supports local non-profit organizations.

Bayou City Art Festival has provided a venue for more than 20,000 artists to showcase their artwork to thousands of art enthusiasts from all over the world. The participating artists, some new and some returning are selected by a new jury each year.

photo credit: V. Sweeten