JORDYN RUSSELL – STAFF WRITER
The Friends of Chautauqua Visual Arts will host a wide array of remarkable artists for the annual Art in the Park, featuring students from the CVA School of Art as well as artisans from across the region. The arts and crafts show will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday in Miller Park.
The open art fair will display more than 70 vendor tables this year, highlighting everything from fine art to mosaics. The artwork for sale includes hand-dyed silk clothing, organic cosmetics, paintings, ceramics, homemade soaps, embellished handbags, fine jewelry, pieces made of up-cycled materials and hallmark Chautauqua-themed trinkets.
The entrance fee for the event supports and provides scholarships for students at the CVA School of Art. Every student was awarded a scholarship this year.
Belinda Rogers, member of the Friends of CVA Board of Directors, expressed her excitement ahead of the annual event.
“I was a vendor at Art in the Park two years ago, it is just so great for the artists and students,” Rogers said. “We had so many vendors reach out over the pandemic, local and regional artists that really look forward to this, as well as having access to the Chautauqua community.”
Each year, the annual market is planned for Sunday, when admission to the grounds is free to all. Chautauquans, as well as members of the surrounding community, are encouraged to attend.
“Unique to this year, there is only one Art in the Park event this summer, instead of the usual two that we typically have throughout the summer,” Rogers said. “So, we really encourage everyone to come out and see what Art in the Park has to offer.”
Wendy Cohn, a fused glass artist, has been participating in the annual event for around 15 years, exhibiting earrings, pendants, bracelets, dishes, napkin holders, nightlights and spoon rests, all made out of glass.
“(I) look forward to seeing all the people who come to the event, especially with the camaraderie between fellow artists,” Cohn said. “I really enjoy sharing (my) work with folks, especially those who return each year, sharing their stories about their previous purchases.”
