Festival News

Artist Applications Deadline Draws Near for 2023 Redlands Festival of Arts

Redlands, CA–January 27, 2023–New artist applications will close soon on February 11 for the 2023 Redlands Festival of Arts Live Exhibition, which is a juried art show awarding over $6,000.00 in prizes to talented artists who will come from across the United States over this coming year’s Memorial Day weekend, May 27-28, 2023, from 10 am to 5 pm to show their work in Smiley Park in historic downtown Redlands.

Over 100 artists will participate in this open air art festival, many of them competing for awards in multiple categories in the festival’s juried art competition.  This free, family-friendly live event draws thousands of visitors who enjoy and buy a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, fiber, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, furniture and more.

Artists who are interested in entering the festival’s juried art competition are encouraged to visit zapplication.org  to complete the festival artist exhibitor application form. While there is a booth fee for accepted artists, no percentage of artwork sales is retained by the festival. Artists are encouraged to enter early as spots fill up quickly. Applications close on February 11.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, said, “I’m encouraging artists from Redlands, the Inland Empire and all of Southern California to apply for this juried show.  Our festival visitors love to buy all kinds of art because the festival proceeds support our grant programs benefiting local youth organizations with art programs. We also need sponsors and festival volunteers to help.  It’s fun to be a volunteer—just ask me or visit our web site for more info.”

 A family friendly event, the live festival exhibition includes a Youth Art Expo showcasing artwork from local schools, a hands-on Kids Zone with on-site fun art creative experiences and a high school student live Chalk Art Competition with cash prizes.  The festival also includes live musical artist entertainment on multiple stages and a food, beer and wine garden. 

Steps away from the festival there will be more to see and do at Art in the Park sponsored by the Redlands Art Association, which will be held on the Eureka Street side of Smiley Park adjacent to the Redlands Bowl and Mission Gables House.  The festival is also located within easy walking distance of Redlands charming downtown shopping and dining district.  Come for the day or spend the weekend.

(end)

Festival of Arts Celebrates 10th Annual Show With Live Exhibition in Smiley Park

Redlands, CA–March 31, 2022–Celebrating its tenth annual show, the Redlands Festival of Arts returns to a live juried art event awarding over $6,000.00 in cash prizes to artists coming from across the United States and beyond over the Memorial Day weekend, May 28-29, 2022, from 10 am to 5 pm daily to show their works in Smiley Park in historic downtown Redlands.

Founded in 2013 by Shirley Harry and Jerry Bean, the Festival has grown from its first small juried art show to a respected regional event in the nation’s arts community.  The show, which charges no admission fee, attracts thousands of daily visitors from the Inland Empire and all of Southern California who enjoy art, food, music and a day in the park.

Cofounder and Festival Chair Harry said, “I am truly grateful to our artists, board, sponsors and volunteers for their dedication to this outdoor show during the great times and the more recent pandemic years.  You never gave up hope, and your commitment allows us to fund youth arts program grants for kids in our community.  I’ve seen their talent, and some of them will become the next generation of fine artists bringing beauty to a world that always needs it.”

Over 100 artists will participate in this year’s art festival, with 60 of them competing in multiple categories for the cash prize awards in the juried art competition.  This family-friendly event draws art lovers and serious collectors young and old who buy a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, fiber, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry and more.

Headlining the Festival is nationally recognized, award winning artist Elinore Schnurr of New York. The artist’s works are held in public and private collections, including those of the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, the Museum of the City of New York and the Cleveland Museum of Art.  Schnurr is a contemporary representational painter who uses real scenes to celebrate the complexities of personal interaction in a world of global connectedness and to evoke the desire for transcendence in the secular world.

The Festival also includes the Youth Art Expo student artist competition, a kid’s fun art creative space, free books from Redlands Sunrise Rotary, the Redlands Symphony Petting Zoo, a high school student Chalk Art Competition, three musical stages including the new Presbyterian Church’s park-let stage featuring student musician performances, and the popular Art in the Park exhibition sponsored by the Redlands Art Association (RAA). 

The Youth Art Expo is sponsored by the Margaret Clark Art Education Enrichment Fund and the Redlands Art Association (RAA).  Expo Director and RFA Board Member Annette Weis invites all Redlands students K-12 to obtain an application from the RAA and submit their artwork to the RAA Gallery, 225 State Street, 11 am to 4pm, May 23-26, for judging and prizes.  All student artwork will be displayed during the Festival at the Youth Art Expo tents, which will also include creative arts activities for kids and parents.

The RAA’s annual Art in the Park exhibition is located on the Eureka Street side of Smiley Park adjacent to the Mission Gables House. Art in the Park features the creative work of dozens of RAA member artists, many of whom are award winners with works found in multiple galleries.  Visitors to the Festival will find it is also located within easy walking distance of downtown Redlands’ charming vintage architecture, dining, antiques, shopping and the RAA Gallery.

Live musical performances will run daily on multiple Festival stages.  Performing on the Wine & Beer Garden Stage are: Dan & Cindy, Plum Nelly, The Sheptones, Honey, Felonius Plunk, The Neverlys, Smudge Pots, Coleslaw, Machael Tamony, and Laura Bean and the Vagabonds.  The Mission Gables House Stage will feature: Cecelio Alvarez, Emmalie Breen, Gilman Carver, Paul Olives, Annie Jay, Ray & Peggy Ziegler, The Dust Brothers, Fear the Gray, Porkbolii and Ryan Martinez. Visit the Festival web site for artist performance times.

Nearby a food truck fantasy adjacent to the shady beer and wine garden welcomes show visitors hungry for a snack or a meal.   These amazing trucks and pop-up eateries feature the best of Festival cuisine in Southern California, including vegetarian options. Food purveyors scheduled include: Cousins Lobster, Fire A Pizza, Rock n Roll Coffee, Express Hibatchi, Tasty Creations, Kona Ice and Happy Camper Creamery.

(end)

Festival of Arts Virtual Show To Debut Memorial Day Weekend 2021

 Redlands, CA–March 29, 2021–The Board of Directors of the Redlands Festival of Arts voted at their monthly meeting to launch a new virtual experience in lieu of its traditional in-person show.  The online festival will debut Memorial Day Weekend, Friday and Saturday, May 29-30, with a return to a live show in May 2022.

The new Redlands Festival of Arts Virtual Experience will showcase the works of dozens of talented artists on its web site. In addition to the Artist Showcase, plans also include other unique experiences designed to entertain art collectors and the whole family.

“We think that our new Redlands Festival of Arts Virtual Experience is the perfect solution to continuing our mission. We’ll be bringing incredible art to the attention of collectors while at the same time raising funds to support after-school student arts programs,” said Shirley Harry, Festival Chairperson. “This seems particularly important as students return to the classroom.”

According to Lynn Whitmer, RFA Board President, “The new Redlands Festival of Arts Virtual Experience is a logical extension to what we’ve been doing for nearly a decade.  Now the best of the Festival will be available 365 days a year in an online environment. This effort will support our Festival artists while presenting collectors with a revolving gallery of new artwork to decorate their homes or purchase gifts for their family and friends.”

Whitmer added, “That old saying, ‘the show must go on,’ is especially appropriate at this time.  Our hardworking Board members are committed to the Festival and its support of our young student artists.  We’re reaching out to longtime sponsors and exploring a number of other fun, creative ways to connect everyone through art over the next year. Watch for more announcements on Facebook (RedlandsFestivalArts on Facebook).”

During its meeting, the Board members also confirmed their commitment to returning to a live, in-person event format in 2022.  For nearly a decade the festival has drawn thousands of visitors to Redlands who want to purchase a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture. 

 (end)

Festival Cancels 2020 Memorial Day Weekend Event,
But Commits to Coming Back in 2021

Redlands, CA–April 13, 2020–At its monthly meeting this week, the Board of Directors of the Redlands Festival of Arts has reluctantly decided that it is in the best interest of the general public, its artists, sponsors, volunteers and vendors to cancel the 2020 event that was slated for the Memorial Day weekend, May 23-24, 10 am to 5 pm, in Smiley Park.

“The festival is a community of artistically-minded people that we love. The health and safety of our guests, artists, sponsors, volunteers and vendors is our top priority. We feel cancelling this year’s event now is in the best interest of everyone because we know that we’ll all be back bigger and better in 2021,” said Shirley Harry, Festival Chair.

The decision to cancel the festival wasn’t taken lightly by the festival board, according to Lynn Whitmer, Board President. She said, “Before making this decision, we consulted city officials, looked at the various health and safety requirements for social distancing, personal protective gear needs and the likelihood that the quarantine might not even be lifted in time.”

Whitmer explained that the logistics required to put on this type of art festival event takes months of planning. “Multiple city agencies and local organizations also are involved, including the Redlands Police Department and Smiley Library, the Redlands Art Association, the Rotary Clubs of Redlands, the Redlands Symphony and others. It requires hundreds of people to put on this festival–some of whom you see and many others behind the scenes who spend countless hours volunteering,” she said.

The RFA board noted in its discussion before voting that it was reluctant to cancel the festival because its purpose is to support local organizations that provide youth arts education. Each year the festival provides multiple grants and hopes to find a way this year to continue that support once these organizations are again able to provide youth arts classes. It was also acknowledged that the festival’s cancellation is a financial blow to the loyal artists that participate year in and year out.

In closing Harry said, “This is a set-back for us, but it sets the stage for a terrific come-back next year.” The festival is a family-focused event that draws thousands of visitors to the downtown Redlands area who want to purchase a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture.

Harry added that those interested in the festival will want to visit Redlands Festival Arts on Facebook and the festival web site for updates. Facebook and the web site will continue to provide news and information about festival events, sponsors, artists, grants and more.

(end)

Award Winning New York Artist Elinore Schnurr
Is Named 2020 Festival Featured Artist

Redlands, CA–January 7, 2020–Nationally recognized, award winning painter Elinore Schnurr of New York will exhibit as the Featured Artist of the 2020 Redlands Festival of Arts over the Memorial Day weekend, May 23-24, 10 am to 5 pm, in Smiley Park.

Schnurr is a contemporary representational painter who uses real scenes to celebrate the complexities of personal interaction in a world of global connectedness and to evoke the desire for transcendence in a secular world. Her work is held in public and private collections, including those of the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, the Museum of the City of New York and the Cleveland Museum of Art.

The Redlands Festival of Arts is a family friendly event for which there is no admission charge. It attracts more than 100 exhibiting artists from across the nation. The festival draws thousands of visitors who want to purchase a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture.

In addition to art, there’s food, live entertainment and a special Kids Fun Zone with hands-on art activities, an instrument petting zoo provided by the Redlands Symphony and free books from Redlands Sunrise Rotary.

High school students will participate in the festival’s annual chalk art competition—allowing visitors to watch these young artists as they create their own masterpieces. Nearby, other school-age student artwork will be featured in a new special exhibit area of their own.

Steps away at the Redlands Bowl there will be more to see and do at Art in the Park sponsored by the Redlands Art Association with dozens of artists. The festival also includes exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine. Smiley Park is located in the heart of Redlands with shopping and restaurants, making the festival a perfect SoCal day-trip destination.

(end)
Image Caption: Redlands Festival of Arts, By Elinore Schnurr
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Memorial Day Weekend Veterans Salute & Rock ‘n Roll Concert
To Kick Off 2019 Redlands Festival of Arts

Redlands, CA–May 10, 2019–Music and art lovers will want to mark their calendars for the Memorial Day Weekend Veterans Salute and Family Rock ‘n Roll Concert hosted by the Redlands Festival of Arts on Friday, May 24, 6:30 pm at the Redlands Bowl.
The festival, for which there is no admission charge, will kick-off at the Redlands Bowl on Friday evening with an inaugural patriotic ceremony of remembrance honoring our veterans and their families. This tribute to our military will begin with a musical prelude by the Camp Carleton Cornet Band. Master of ceremonies Dr. Michael Estrada, Associate Professor, Founding Director and Chair, Physician Assistant Program, University of LaVerne, will lead the program with opening remarks presented by Mayor Paul Foster.

The invocation will be presented by Pastor Cheryl Raines, Redlands First Presbyterian Church. The presentation of the colors will be led by the Redlands Police Department Honor Guard, Public Safety Academy Honor Guard and Hosea Taylor, Chief Master Sergeant, retired, USAF.

The national anthem will be performed by opera singer Lisa Corpron, La Jolla United Methodist Church. Chris Martin, 2019 Redlands Man of the Year, will introduce a Memorial Day address to be presented by former prisoner of war Anthony “Tony” Marshall, which will be followed by a Memorial Day reading from Dave Maupin. Closing the program is a three-volley rifle salute, the playing of taps, a moment of silence honoring our fallen heroes and the singing of God Bless The USA. Ceremonial closing remarks will be presented by Jerry Bean.

Following this tribute presentation local band, The Highland Music Company will take the stage to perform a popular mix of classic rock ‘n roll favorites sure to please the whole family. Leading the band is James Morales, who was instrumental in organizing this inaugural tribute to and concert for our veterans at the bowl in Redlands. The event is sponsored by Cheryl Evans, Evans & Co. Salon.

Early on Saturday morning, the Juried Art Show & Sale opens to the public and judges will be looking over the work of 60 specially selected artists from the Southwestern U.S. and beyond. Cash prizes will be awarded in multiple categories that include painting, mixed-media, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture.

This year’s featured artist is Diana McLaughlin. She is well known locally for her distinctive style, use of color and attention to detail. Her Festival 2019 artwork will be on display at the event and has been featured in the festival’s advertising campaign.

Look for the tents on Fourth St housing the Youth Art Expo–Showcasing Our Creative Kids, sponsored by the Margaret Clark Art Education Enrichment Fund. This gallery will feature
school-age student artwork and allow students to explore their talents with a special art project.

Outside the tents on the sidewalks, high school students will compete in a Festival Chalk Art Exhibition. The students will arrive early and begin creating colorful masterpieces as the public watches. The finished images will be judged with awards presented to the winners.

Steps away there will be more to see and do at Art in the Park on the Eureka St side of Smiley Park near the Redlands Bowl. Local members of the Redlands Art Association will be exhibiting and selling a wide range of art media.

A family friendly event, the festival includes a special Kids Zone. This area is designed for younger kids with hands-on art activities, free books from Redlands Sunrise Rotary and the ever popular Instrument Petting Zoo sponsored by the Redlands Symphony.

Adjacent to the Lincoln Shrine, visit the food, beer and wine garden with live entertainment stage on Saturday and Sunday. Those ready to relax will find this area includes chairs, tables, food truck fare, beer and wine along with talented musicians.

(end)
Image Caption: Stars & Stripes Guitar, Highland Music Company
Image Caption: Festival 2019, Image by Diana McLaughlin
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

 

Juried Art Show & Sale, Art in the Park, Youth Art Expo and Family Rock ‘n Roll Concert Saluting Our Vets–All Set for Memorial Day Weekend in Redlands

Redlands, CA–May 1, 2019–Visitors to the 2019 Redlands Festival of Arts will find art, music, fun and food await them over the Memorial Day weekend in Smiley Park, beginning Friday, May 24 at 6:30 pm and continuing Saturday and Sunday, May 25-26, 10 am to 5 pm.

The festival, for which there is no admission charge, will kick-off at the Redlands Bowl on Friday evening with a patriotic ceremony of remembrance honoring our veterans and their families. Following this special presentation, local favorites The Highland Music Company will take the stage to perform a popular mix of classic rock ‘n roll favorites sure to please everyone.

Early on Saturday morning, the Juried Art Show & Sale opens to the public and judges will be looking over the work of 60 specially selected artists from the Southwestern U.S. and beyond. Cash prizes will be awarded in multiple categories that include painting, mixed-media, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture.

Look for the tents on Fourth St housing the Youth Art Expo–Showcasing Our Creative Kids, sponsored by the Margaret Clark Art Education Enrichment Fund. This gallery will feature school-age student artwork and allow students to explore their talents with a special art project.

Outside the tents on the sidewalks, high school students will compete in a Festival Chalk Art Exhibition. The students will arrive early and begin creating colorful masterpieces as the public watches. The finished images will be judged with awards presented to the winners.

Steps away there will be more to see and do at Art in the Park on the Eureka St side of Smiley Park near the Redlands Bowl. Local members of the Redlands Art Association will be exhibiting and selling a wide range of art media.

A family friendly event, the festival includes a special Kids Zone. This area is designed for younger kids with hands-on art activities, free books from Redlands Sunrise Rotary and the ever popular Instrument Petting Zoo sponsored by the Redlands Symphony.

Adjacent to the Lincoln Shrine, visit the food, beer and wine garden with live entertainment stage on Saturday and Sunday. Those ready to relax will find this area includes chairs, tables, food truck fare, beer and wine along with talented musicians.

(end)
Image By Diana McLaughlin, 2019 Festival Featured Artist
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
####

Attic Art 2019 Fundraiser Event

Come sip, browse, shop and enjoy at the Attic Art 2019 Sale, which is a gently used art fundraiser to support local arts education that will be held at the Museum of Redlands (MOR) on March 1 and 2.

Sponsored by the Redlands Festival of Arts (RFA) and the Redlands Art Association (RAA), the Attic Art 2019 Sale is a two-day art event with over 300 pieces of art that might typically be purchased in a gallery, but at bargain prices that could yield some lost treasures.

The sale begins Friday, March 1, with a $25 per person Opening Night Preview Sale Party, 5:30 to 8:00 pm, at the Museum of Redlands (MOR), 700 Brookside Ave.  The collection opens for sale to the public at no admission charge on Saturday, March 2, from 8 am to 3 pm.

Reservations for the Friday opening night party are available from the RAA by phone at 909-792-8435 or by visiting its downtown gallery on State Street.  Event Chair Shirley Harry said, “This event is an exciting opportunity for new homeowners, those relocating to the area and art lovers of all tastes to acquire beautiful wall artwork suitable for a wide range of styles and decors at bargain prices.”

Event organizers are still seeking donations of wall art, which can be dropped off until Thursday, February 28 at the offices of Lois Lauer Century 21 Realty, 1998 Orange Tree Lane, from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday thru Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday.  

Art donors with questions should call Shirley Harry: 909-214-7179 or email her: [email protected].  For general information or to reserve preview sale tickets, call the RAA at (909) 792-8435.

Harry said, “This is an easy way to edit your wall art collection and share art that you’ve enjoyed, but no longer have a place to display.  Best of all, you’ll be helping us raise badly needed funds for arts education programs.

“People often call the RAA and the RFA to ask what they can do with inherited artwork or pieces that they’ve purchased and no longer want.  “Unfortunately,” Harry says . . .  “it’s harder to sell art on the secondary market than one might think.

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com

2019 Festival Artist Applications Now Open

Artist applications are open for the 2019 Redlands Festival of Arts, which is a juried art show awarding over $6,000.00 in prizes to talented artists who will come from across the United States over this coming year’s Memorial Day weekend, May 25-26, 2019, from 10 am to 5 pm to exhibit their work in Smiley Park.

More than 60 artists are expected to participate in this open air, juried art show and compete for honors in multiple art categories. This festival, for which there is no admission charge, draws thousands of visitors who want to see and purchase a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture.

Interested artists are encouraged to visit zapplication.org to complete the festival artist exhibitor application form. While there is a booth fee for accepted artists, no percentage is retained by the festival from the sale of their artwork.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, said, “I’m encouraging artists from Redlands, the Inland Empire and Southern California to apply for this juried show. Our festival visitors love to buy all kinds of art while supporting our student artist grant programs. We also need more festival volunteers to help us. It’s fun to be a volunteer—just ask me or visit our web site for more info.”

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences, a chalk art competition and this year a new youth art exhibit. The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

Steps away from the festival there will be more to see and do at Art in the Park, which will be held on the Eureka Street side of Smiley Park adjacent to the Redlands Bowl and Mission Gables House.

(end)
Image By Ivano Stocco, 2018 Festival Winner: Best In Show
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Festival Awards 2018 Youth Art Grants

The Redlands Festival of Arts announces the award of a $1,500 grant to Micah House that will support the organization’s youth art enrichment activities, which complement its primary mission to provide student after-school homework assistance, tutoring and other educational programs.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chair, said, “We are pleased to award this grant to Micah House, which helps our kids in Redlands succeed academically while also exposing them to the arts.”

The grant was presented by Harry and Festival President Lynn Whitmer to Micah House’s Alison Anderson, Director of Outreach & Development. The grant award was based on Micah House’s application demonstrating its service to youth with an arts emphasis.

The Redlands Festival of Arts is dedicated to the presentation of fine art to the community in a family-friendly setting. The nonprofit festival’s grants support local students, helping them develop their talents and exhibit their works. Additional 2018 grants of $1,500 each will be awarded to the Redlands Art Association’s Youth Education Program and to the Redlands Educational Partnership (REP) Foundation’s AAA Academy.

The family-friendly 2019 Redlands Festival of Arts is scheduled for next May 25-26 over the Memorial Day weekend. A juried art competition, the Festival attracts over 100 applicants and artists from Southern California and across the Western U.S. Many of them are award winners and their works are found in museums, public buildings and private collections. They exhibit at the festival in multiple art categories including, painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber and wood.

Micah House is an educational after-school program for children and youth in grades 1-12. Established in 2001, Micah House seeks to meet the challenges faced by kids today in under-resourced neighborhoods. Its programs bridge the gap from school to home, providing homework help, tutoring, literacy education and character-building themes.

Photo Caption: Lynn Whitmer, Alison Anderson and Shirley Harry (left to right)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com ● Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
Contributing Writer and Photographer: Aspen Sullivan ● Email: [email protected]
###

2018 Festival Winners Announced

The 2018 winners have been announced by the Redlands Festival of Arts for its Juried Artist Competition, including Best in Show and multiple awards in two- and three-dimensional art categories, and its Student Chalk Art Competition.

Over sixty artists submitted applications to participate in the festival’s annual Juried Artist Competition.  Many of the festival’s exhibiting artists are multiple art show winners who are from throughout California and across the southwestern United States.  A number of them have their works on display in museums, galleries and public buildings.

Judging the juried artist competition were artists Danielle Giudici Wallis, Program Specialist, Art Connection of San Bernardino County, and Sant Khalsa, Professor of Art, Emerita at California State University, San Bernardino, where she has served on the art faculty since 1988.

The festival’s Best in Show Award was given to Ivan Stocco, of Placentia.  Two Dimensional art winners were: Seung Lee, Cathedral City; first place; Ginger Pena, Angelus Oaks, second place; Jeffrey Skelly, Sunland, third place; and festival featured artist Sheila Hansberger, Yucaipa, received an honorable mention.

In the three dimensional art category, winners were: Robert Varela, Whittier, first place; Lucia Fredericy, Pasadena, second place; Glynn Galloway, Las Vegas, third place; and an honorable mention went to Janet Chico, Los Angeles.

The Student Chalk Art Competition was organized by Tracy Massimiano, art department chair, Redlands East Valley High School. Fifteen student competitors participated from Redlands High, Redlands East Valley and Citrus Valley high schools.  Judges were festival board members: Kris Bussard, Cheryl Evans and artist David Schepps.

Piper Santos of Redlands High School won first place with her version of “Young Girl With a Flower,” by Marie Laurencin. Second place went to Romeo Quinones, Citrus Valley, for “Persistence of Memory,” by Salvador Dali.; third place went to Vivianna Vizcarra, Redlands East Valley, for “Virgin of the Adoption,” by Ingres. Two Honorable Mentions were given to Marissa McCullough, Redlands East Valley, for “Self-Portrait,” by Vincent Van Gogh, and to Zach Witham for “Female Nude on her Stomach,” by Egon Schiele.

Photo 1 Chalk Art Competition Winner Piper Santos, Redlands High School, & Judge David Schepps    Photo 2 Caption: Piper Santos Chalk Art Version of Young Girl with Flowers by Marie Laurencin
(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Family-Friendly Art Shows in Redlands Are Perfect Outing for 2018 Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, May 26-27

Over 100 talented artists are expected to exhibit in two Redlands art shows held side-by-side over the Memorial Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, March 26-27, 10 am to 5 pm, in Smiley Park and at the Redlands Bowl.

There is no admission charge to attend either show.  The Festival features a fun-filled Kids Zone, which includes hands-on art activities, a free book give-away and an instrument petting zoo.  A student sidewalk chalk art demonstration and competition will take place as well.  The Redlands Library and Lincoln Shrine will be open too.

The artists participating in the Redlands Festival of Arts’ juried art show come from across the U.S. and will compete for awards and cash prizes in multiple categories: painting, mixed media, digital media, photography, fiber, jewelry, wood and ceramics.  Local artists will also display their artwork as part of the Redlands Art Association’s annual Art in the Park show.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chair, said, “The caliber of artists competing this year is exceptional.  They represent a wide variety of art media with a broad range of styles that one can’t normally see in a single gallery or museum.  It’s a great way to expose the whole family to the world of art while enjoying a leisurely day in downtown Redlands.”

The Festival has named Sheila Hansberger as its 2018 Featured Artist. Previously a commercial artist, Hansberger is now recognized as an exceptional watercolor artist.  Her artwork is collected by individuals and hangs in public venues, including the Redlands Community Hospital, San Bernardino County Museum and elsewhere. She is a signature member of the National Watercolor Society and Watercolor West.

Local musicians will provide live entertainment on both days at two festival stages.  For those feeling hungry, a line-up of popular eateries and food trucks is set to appear, including Mill Creek, Cousins Lobster, Rock n Roll Coffee and Kona Ice  The festival wine and beer garden will be open too, and there is outdoor seating available.

Photo Caption:  Art Festival Morning by Sheila Hansberger, NWS, WW
(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Sheila Hansberger Named 2018 Festival Featured Artist

Sheila Hansberger, NWS, WW, of Yucaipa has been chosen as the Featured Artist for the 2018 Redlands Festival of the Arts, a juried art show awarding $6,000.00 in prizes to artists from across the United States who will exhibit their work over Memorial Day weekend, May 26-27, from 10 am to 5 pm in Smiley Park.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, announced Hansberger as the Featured Artist for 2018 and said, “We are delighted to honor Sheila at our sixth annual festival. Her work captures the heart, and it has a lively quality and beauty of color that appeals to everyone.”

Hansberger is an accomplished artist, author and lecturer. Her artwork can be found in private and public collections, including the San Bernardino County Museum, the National Orange Show, Redlands Community Hospital and Mt. San Jacinto College. She has been published in periodicals and books: American Artist Magazine, Inland Empire Magazine and the Rockport Publishers’ book series, The Best of Watercolor.

From an early age Hansberger knew that she would be an artist. “At age five, I peddled crayon drawings to the neighbors for a penny a piece. But sale or no sale, I knew I was destined to be an artist,” Hansberger said.

A Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society (NWS), as well as Watercolor West (WW), she has served as president for several associations, including Watercolor West and has been a board member for many others. For five years she held the position of NWS newsletter editor. Hansberger said, “Putting together a multi-page publication for thousands of members allowed me to hone my writing skills.”

Hansberger will donate a beautiful watercolor to the festival, which will be auctioned to support arts education programs in area schools and after-school programs. There is no festival admission charge. Visitors will see paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furnishings.

This family-friendly event includes a free KidsZone with art activities and face painting, free kids books from Sunrise Rotary and the Redlands Symphony’s instrument petting zoo. The festival features live musical entertainment, food trucks with tasty cuisine, and a premium beer and wine garden with comfortable table seating.

The festival grounds include Art in the Park, which is sponsored by the Redlands Art Association. Talented association members will exhibit a wide variety of artwork. Local high school student artists will compete in a chalk art exhibit nearby. Festival visitors also can tour the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine.

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Artist Applications Open For 2018 Redlands Festival of Arts

Artist applications are now open for the 2018 Redlands Festival of Arts, which is a juried art show awarding $6,000.00 in prizes to talented artists who will come from across the United States over this year’s Memorial Day weekend, May 26-27, from 10 am to 5 pm to exhibit their work in Smiley Park.

More than 60 artists are expected to participate in this open air, juried art show and compete for honors in multiple art categories. This festival, for which there is no admission charge, draws thousands of visitors who come to see a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion, furniture and more.

Interested artists are encouraged to visit www.zapplications.org to complete the required festival artist exhibitor application form, which is due March 7. While there is a booth fee for the accepted, juried festival artists, no percentage is retained by the festival from the sale of artwork.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, said, “I’m encouraging local Redlands, Inland Empire and Southern California artists to participate in the festival. Our festival visitors love to buy all kinds of art while at the same time supporting our student artist grant programs. We also need more festival volunteers to help us. It’s fun to be a volunteer—just ask me or visit our web site for more info.”

Festival awarded grants of $1,500.00 each were presented last year to the Micah House Arts Program and the Redlands Art Association’s Youth Education Program. A $1,600.00 grant was presented to the Redlands Educational Partnership’s AAA Academy.

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences. The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Ginger Pena Named As 2017 Festival Featured Artist

Redlands, CA–May 4, 2017–Ginger Pena of Angelus Oaks is honored as the Featured Artist for the 2017 Redlands Festival of Arts, which is a juried art show awarding $6,000.00 in prizes to artists from across the United States who will exhibit their work over Memorial Day weekend, May 27-28, from 10 am to 5 pm in Smiley Park.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, announced Pena as the Featured Artist for 2017 and said, “We are pleased to honor Ginger at our fifth annual festival.  Her work has a timeless beauty, sophistication and quality that I think everyone can appreciate.”

In describing her artwork, Pena said, “I love the outdoors, particularly wide-open spaces, rolling hills, and of course, the mountains!   Historic buildings also intrigue me, and I enjoy painting the relationship between buildings and the trees and gardens surrounding them.”

Pena has donated a beautiful watercolor depicting visitors to the festival, which will be auctioned during the festival to help support arts education programs in the local schools. She paints primarily in watercolor on archival Aquabord.  The artist then varnishes her finished works so they can be framed like oil paintings without mats and glass.

There is no festival admission charge. Visitors will see paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture. This family-friendly event includes a free KidsZone with art activities and face painting, free kids books from Sunrise Rotary and the Redlands Symphony’s instrument petting zoo.

The festival features live entertainment, food trucks and a beer and wine garden.  Visitors also can tour the Smiley Library and the Lincoln shrine. Next door to the festival at the Police Annex is Art in the Park, which is sponsored by the Redlands Art Association

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com

###

Fifth Redlands Festival of Arts Seeks New Volunteers to Help

Redlands, CA–March 23, 2017– Volunteers are needed for the fifth annual Redlands Festival of Arts, which is a juried art show awarding $6,000.00 in prizes to artists from across the United States who will exhibit their work over Memorial Day weekend, May 27-28, from 10 am to 5 pm in Smiley Park.

Volunteer help is needed for a wide range of tasks, such as helping to install temporary fencing, assisting with artist booth set-up, staffing the gates or information booths, leading children’s art activities and dismantling the show.  Typical volunteer shifts require three to four hours of time.

Nancy O’Connor, Director of Volunteers, said, “The festival is a fun way to spend the holiday weekend.  Students can earn community service hours.  Service clubs also can gain exposure for member recruitment.  Those interested in signing up to volunteer can visit: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com, or email [email protected] or call Festival Chairwoman Shirley Harry at (909) 214-7179.

There is no festival admission charge. Visitors will see paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion and furniture. This family-friendly event includes a KidsZone with art activities and face painting, free kids books from Sunrise Rotary and the Redlands Symphony’s instrument petting zoo.

The festival features live entertainment, food trucks and a beer and wine garden.  Visitors also can tour the Smiley Library and the Lincoln shrine. Next door to the festival at the Police Annex is Art in the Park, which is sponsored by the Redlands Art Association.

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RB Marketing Communications, Inc.
Email: [email protected] ● Tel: 909-223-6700 ● Web: rbmarketing.com
###

Artist Applications Open For 2017 Redlands Festival of Arts

Redlands, CA–January 16, 2017–Artist applications are now open for the 2017 Redlands Festival of Arts, which is a juried art show awarding $6,000.00 in prizes to talented artists who will come from across the United States over this year’s Memorial Day weekend, May 27-28, from 10 am to 5 pm to exhibit their work in Smiley Park. This will be the fifth year of the show.

More than 60 artists are expected to participate in this open air, juried art show and compete for honors in multiple art categories.  This festival, for which there is no admission charge, draws thousands of visitors who want to see a wide range of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry, fashion, furniture and more.

Interested artists are encouraged to visit www.zapplications.org to complete the required festival artist exhibitor application form, which is due March 7. While there is a booth fee for the accepted, juried festival artists, no percentage is retained by the festival from the sale of artwork. The festival is held adjacent to the Redlands Art Association’s Art in the Park event at the nearby Police Annex.  The Redlands Art Association also is a sponsor of the festival.

Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, said, “I’m encouraging local Redlands, Inland Empire and Southern California artists to participate in the festival.  Our festival visitors love to buy all kinds of art while at the same time supporting our student artist grant programs. We also need more festival volunteers to help us.  It’s fun to be a volunteer—just ask me or visit our web site for more info.”

Festival awarded grants of $1,500.00 each were presented last year to the Micah House Arts Program and the Redlands Art Association’s Youth Education Program. A $1,600.00 grant was presented to the Redlands Educational Partnership’s AAA Academy.

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences.  The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

###

Redlands Festival of Arts Announces 2016 Entertainment Schedule

Circle BandRedlands, CA–May 17, 2016–Redlands Festival of the Arts event chairwoman Shirley Harry and board president Lynn Whitmer today announced the festival entertainment line-up will include nine musical performers and groups appearing May 28 and Mary 29, on three different stages at this year’s event.

“We’re excited to announce this talented group of musical artists organized by our festival entertainment chair Wendy Hunt, who is a singer-songwriter performing at the festival. We have something for everybody with a great mix of blues, jazz, folk and rock,” Harry said.

The artists scheduled to perform include: Chad Villareal, Chuck Smolsky, Circle Band, Denise Rickert & Washboard Clay, Do Wrong Right, Gilman Carver, Katia Aoun Hage, Stephie Dianne Moore, Strange Indeed, Third Stream Crossing, Wendy Sue Hunt and White on Rice.

Circle Band members Chris Beach, Clayton Crawford and Wendy Hunt perform an eclectic blend of jazz, blues and folk music. The musical duo of Matthew James and Madelin Amaral known as Do Wrong Right plays folk, Americana and jazz.

Stephanie Dianne Moore is a singer songwriter who is a fan favorite in coffee houses. Third Stream is an acoustic duo with Michael Taelour and Dan Morgan. White On Rice is a five member rock band that sheds light on unexplored hit dance, rock, soul and funk.

Over 120 artists are expected to participate in the 2016 Redlands Festival of the Arts. In Smiley Park, 50 artists will compete in an open air, juried art show featuring glass, jewelry, painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture and wood.  Another 70 artists who are members of the Redlands Art Association will be exhibiting next door at Art in the Park.

The festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29 in Smiley Park in Redlands. There is no charge for admission, but free will donations support student art grants. The grants benefit local schools and youth organizations, providing much needed arts supplies.

Harry said, “The Redlands Festival of Arts is a great way to spend the Memorial Day weekend for both artists and festival visitors.  You can view and shop for incredible art to decorate your home while at the same time supporting our student and grant programs.”

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences.  The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

The Redlands Festival of Arts is a 501(c) (3) charity dedicated to the presentation of fine art to the community in a family-friendly public setting. Festival grants support student artists and emerging adult artists, helping them develop their talents and exhibit their works.

(end)
Visit us at: www.redlandsfestivalarts.com
Editor’s Contact: Randy Brown, RBMC, Tel: 909-335-1941, Email: [email protected]

***

Redlands Festival of Arts Announces 2016 Educational Grant Recipients

Student-Artists-IMG_1864Redlands, CA–May 9, 2016–Redlands Festival of the Arts event chairwoman Shirley Harry and board president Lynn Whitmer today announced the presentation of arts educational grants of $1,500.00 each to the Micah House Arts Program, the Redlands Educational Partnership (REP) Foundation AAA Academy and the Redlands Art Association’s Youth Education Program.

In announcing the grants, Harry said, “We are pleased that the success of last year’s Redlands Festival of the Arts has allowed us to assist these student arts educational programs. Our success is the result of the many sponsors, volunteers, artists and festival visitors who participate every year.”

More than 50 artists are expected to participate in the 2016 Redlands Festival of the Arts, which is an open air, juried art show.  The festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29 in Smiley Park. There is no charge for admission, but festival guests are encouraged to leave a free will donation to help support the grants program.

Harry said, “The Redlands Festival of Arts is a great way to spend the Memorial Day weekend for both artists and festival visitors.  You can view and shop for incredible art to decorate your home while at the same time supporting our student and adult emerging artist grant programs.”

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences.  The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

The Redlands Festival of Arts is a 501(c) (3) charity dedicated to the presentation of fine art to the community in a family-friendly public setting. Our grants support student artists and emerging adult artists, helping them develop their talents and exhibit their works.

(end)

***

Redlands Festival of Arts Announces 2016 Silent Auction Featured Artist

RFA-Joanna-MersereauRedlands, CA––April 28, 2016–Redlands Festival of the Arts event chairwoman Shirley Harry and board president Lynn Whitmer today announced that Joanna Mersereau has been chosen as the 2016 Silent Auction Featured Artist to benefit the festival and its arts education grant programs. The Silent Auction will be held during the festival, which is scheduled for Mary 28-29 in Smiley Park, Redlands, over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Well known to the local community, Mersereau’s dedication to watercolor is longstanding as one of the founders of Watercolor West. Since then she has won signature membership in the American Watercolor Society, the epitome of excellence in the water media world. Her awards are numerous. Her paintings have found homes around the globe as well as in permanent collections of museums.

Harry said, “We are exceptionally fortunate that an artist of Joanna’s stature has donated a beautiful watercolor for our Silent Auction. Not only is Joanna a talented, successful artist, she is generous, kind and willing to help us support the festival and our arts education grant programs. Our winning bidder is going to treasure this lovely watercolor showing off the festival in Smiley Park.”

Mersereau paints in traditional pure watercolor technique, using flat, vibrant color patterns, often enhanced by metallic gouache or gold leaf. “I am passionately involved in exploring the design, structure and color in my subjects. The painting is complete when the viewer responds,” Mersereau said.

More than 50 artists are expected to participate in the 2016 Redlands Festival of the Arts, which is an open air, juried art show.  The festival will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29 in Smiley Park. There is no charge for admission, but festival guests are encouraged to leave a free will donation to help support the grants program.

Harry said, “The Redlands Festival of Arts is a great way to spend the Memorial Day weekend for both artists and festival visitors.  You can view and shop for incredible art to decorate your home while at the same time supporting our student and adult emerging artist grant programs.”

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences.  The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

The Redlands Festival of Arts is a 501(c) (3) charity dedicated to the presentation of fine art to the community in a family-friendly public setting. Our grants support student artists and emerging adult artists, helping them develop their talents and exhibit their works.

(end)

***

Artist Applications Open For 2016 Redlands Festival Of The Arts

Redlands Festival of ArtsRedlands, CA–January 12, 2016–Shirley Harry, Festival Chairwoman, announces that artist applications are now open for the 2016 Redlands Festival of the Arts, Memorial Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29, from 10 am to 5 pm in Smiley Park.

More than 60 artists are expected to participate in this open air, juried art show, which awards cash prizes to artists.  This festival, for which there is no admission charge, draws thousands of visitors who come to see a wide range of art, including paintings, sculpture, glass, textiles, metal, wood, ceramics, jewelry and more.

Interested artists are encouraged to visit www.zapplications.org to complete the required artist exhibitor application, which is due no later than March 7. Applications are being accepted now for this popular show.

Harry said, “The Redlands Festival of Arts is a great way to spend the Memorial Day weekend for both artists and festival visitors.  You can view and shop for incredible art to decorate your home while at the same time supporting our student and adult emerging artist grant programs.”

In 2015, the festival awarded grants of $1500.00 each that were presented to the Micah House Arts Program and the Redlands Art Association’s Youth Education Program. A $1600.00 grant was presented to the the REP Foundation AAA Academy.

A family friendly event, the festival includes a Kids Arts Zone with hands-on fun art experiences.  The festival also includes special exhibits at the Smiley Library and the Lincoln Shrine along with live entertainment and a food, beer and wine garden.

(end)