Paintings, embroidery, photography, pottery, music and more filled the warm spring air as the Art Club hosted their second annual Art Fest on April 20 at Curran Field.
Hawk Hill was overflowing with talent as approximately 50 artistic vendors set up booths to showcase and sell their art to community members.
According to Art Club President Ana Triantafilou ’23, the talent within the community is special, and the goal of the event is to not only showcase to others this talent, but also give small artists the platform to start something of their own.
“Art Fest is like a culmination of a little town of small businesses,” said Triantafilou. “It just gives people a platform. The whole thing in itself was giving people platforms to show who they are.”
According to Art Club Vice President Kelly Slater ’24, an event like Art Fest allows small artists to show off their talents while connecting with other artists and getting a feel for selling their work.
“A lot of times these artists are first-time showing their work or selling their work, and it’s a really great opportunity to understand how it works,” Slater said. “Artists can get to know each other and help each other out and connect.”
All students were welcomed to present their work at the event whether or not they are a member of the club or have attended events in the past. Jordan Wright ’24 is one of the students who made his Art Fest debut, showcasing his vibrant and colorful acrylic paintings. He stresses the importance of art and its ability to turn someone’s mood around.
“I think art is a way to understand people better. It shows the creative side that we don’t see,” Wright said. “Art is fun to do. It gives me a sense of calmness, and I like sharing it with others.”
Maggie Stinson ’25 also participated in Art Fest for the first time this year, selling some of her photography pieces. According to Stinson, art is a creative outlet and puts positive energy into the world.
“[Art] sparks creativity in people, and I think that’s something we need in the world, that creative spirit,” Stinson said.
Art Club is open to anyone of any major. According to Triantafilou, it has an atmosphere full of good vibes, finding the beauty in the arts and surrounding yourself with soulful people.
“The whole point of our club is that you literally do not have to be artistically inclined,” Triantafilou said. “Art is something that you should universally be able to enjoy.”
