Art on the Square celebrates its 55th birthday in Merchants Square Sunday, as the Junior Woman’s Club of Williamsburg event highlights an array of returning and new artists while raising money for local artists.
“We just get so much of the community to come to this event, and that’s what makes it special,” said Meg Trainor, Art on the Square co-chairwoman. “I think that part of what draws that in is the uniqueness of our artists.”
This year’s lineup features 153 juried artists across a diverse array of media, including painting, photography, jewelry and pottery.
“We worked hard to try and draw new artists in from all over the place,” Trainor said, noting she spent ample time speaking with artists during trips to New Orleans and New York.
Trainor said returning artists also draw returning visitors each year, and the event as a whole appeals to children, teenagers and adults alike.
This year, organizers have ramped up efforts to highlight the artists who make the event what it is.
“We have all kinds of artists. There’s such a great variety of things to see,” said Beth Richard, JWCW’s international, home life and health chairwoman. “There’s something for everybody’s personal taste.”
Artists had the opportunity to fill out information about their work and backgrounds for an spotlight feature on JWCW’s website to familiarize the public prior to Sunday’s big show
“There are just so many artists. When people are at the event, they might feel overwhelmed,” said Erica Hammett, JWCW’s public relations chairwoman. “It’s kind of nice to help people out before they go to the event.”
The club is also emphasizing its social media efforts with a photo contest during the event, encouraging people to take pictures of specific types of art in the pursuit of winning prizes related to restaurants and shops in Merchants Square.
Food vendors include Two Drummers Smokehouse, Ben and Jerry’s, Aromas Coffeehouse and King of Pops. Timothy Seaman, a folk musician who plays instruments including the hammered dulcimer, flute and guitar, will provide live entertainment.
Art on the Square also serves as the club’s biggest fundraising endeavor of the year. Some of the proceeds go toward visual and performing arts organizations throughout Williamsburg, James City and York counties. Richard said the event provides an opportunity to support local artists and showcases why they’re worthy of that support.
“We’re hoping that people see we have a very vibrant arts culture here in Williamsburg,” she said. “We’re trying to highlight that and bring attention to that.”
Want to go?
Art on the Square runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in Merchants Square, along Duke of Gloucester and North Boundary streets. Rain or shine. Admission is free.
Birkenmeyer can be reached by phone at 757-790-3029.
