By Shelby Rowe Moyer
We think it’s pretty safe to say that we’re all in need of a few simple pleasures these days, and Art in the Park is a summer tradition you can count on for just that. Hosted by the Geneva Lake Arts Foundation, the 2020 event marks its 40th anniversary this Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8-9, at Flat Iron Park in downtown Lake Geneva.
More than 80 artists will be showcasing their work at this juried fine art show with art mediums that range from pottery to paintings to photography to sculptures. This event is a major fundraiser for the arts foundation, supporting Gallery 223, as well as art mentoring, monthly presentations, classes, high school art exhibits and more. It’s also an opportunity for the artists to sell their work and gain visibility, says Nikki Marsicano, president of the Geneva Lake Arts Foundation.
Some changes will be present, due to COVID-19, Marsicano says, including social distancing and sanitation stations. Face masks are strongly recommended and disposable masks will be available to the public. Art projects for children will also be prepackaged this year and will be available at the gazebo.
There will still be music and food, and a silent auction will take place at the Brunk Pavilion, with Gallery 223 artists’ work on display.
Marsicano says she loves seeing new and returning artists at the event, and it’s also fun to see kids getting involved and excited about the arts.
“I am the chair of the kid’s art activities at the gazebo sponsored by Lake Geneva Rotary and the Neal and Dotsy Heffernan Art Scholarship Fund,” she explains. “I enjoy not only seeing children create art, but entire families — kids, parents, grandparents — create art together. We provide the art materials, and they use their imaginations and artistic skills to create unique works of art.”
Information about Art in the Park event hours, free parking and shuttle services can be found online.
