GROVELAND — Artists from Amesbury, Newbury and Groveland were among 197 artists recently selected to attend July’s 63rd annual Wickford Art Festival in Wilson Park, North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
Recognized as one of New England’s premier fine art festivals, the Wickford Art Festival attracts talented artists from across the country, featuring exceptional work in painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, glass, fiber, mixed media and more. Following a competitive jury process, the festival will showcase a collection of artists representing a wide range of styles and disciplines.
“We are excited to announce this year’s final artist selections,” said Linda Impagliazzo, executive director of the Wickford Art Association. “The Wickford Art Festival brings together remarkable artists and art lovers for a weekend celebrating creativity, craftsmanship and community.”
Justin Gordon of Groveland, Julie Ariroldi of Amesbury and Michael Updike of Newbury will join Essex County artists Sonja Grondstra of Swampscott, L. Rozanne Tyler-Malone of Nahant, J Martha Quigley of Marblehead, Judith Plank of Rockport and Emer McCourt of South Hamilton.
“I always look forward to the Wickford Art Festival. It is in a wonderful New England seaside town, smaller than Newburyport and just as charming. I’ll be displaying my slate shingle art with an emphasis on ocean life. I’ve been adding color to my work through foil transfers. “
When not crating works of art, Gordon is advocating for them as a member of Newburyport’s biggest art show, July’s Art on the Bartlet Mall.
“The Wickford Art Festival is one of the best shows I know with some of the most talented artists I’ve ever met. I’m honored to be among them,” Gordon said.
Festival director Heather Schold noted the strength of the applicants. “The artists selected for the 63rd annual Wickford Art Festival represent exceptional quality, originality and creativity. We are thrilled to welcome both returning favorites and new artists, while highlighting talented local artists.”
Presented by the Wickford Art Association, the festival transforms Wilson Park into a dynamic outdoor gallery experience, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Guests can browse and purchase original artwork, meet artists, and enjoy the charm of historic Wickford Village.
The festival will be held Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
For more information, contact the Wickford Art Association at wickfordartassociation@gmail.com.
Dave Rogers is the editor of the Daily News of Newburyport. Email him at: drogers@newburyportnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @drogers41008.