The Keizer Art Association has been talking about hosting an art fair for more than a decade, never wanting to compete against longstanding events in Salem and Silverton.
But the all-volunteer nonprofit saw an opening this summer when Salem Art Fair & Festival shifted to September and Silverton Fine Arts Festival announced it would be placed “on pause” for 2024.
“The timing is right for us,” said Lore Christopher, the board chair for the Keizer Art Association.
The art association, in partnership with the Keizer Chamber of Commerce, will host the first annual Riverwalk Art Fair Aug. 9-11 at Keizer Rapids Park. It will coincide with KeizerFEST, staged at the other end of the park.
Exhibitors and visitors will be provided easy access, shade and 24-hour security with display booths along the paved walk of the southernmost area of the park. If facing the boat ramp, the art fair will be staged to the left, along the 12-foot-wide path shaded by cottonwood trees.
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Riverwalk Art Fair is open to all Oregon resident artists with their original artwork and reproductions, and there is no commission on sales. Booth fees are $150, covering the cost of around-the-clock security during the event.
The hours of the Riverwalk Art Fair are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9; and Saturday, Aug. 10; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11.
The deadline for applications is July 31. Artists in need of a tent should apply by Wednesday, July 10.
Apply online at www.keizerarts.com under the “Call to Artists” section. Email questions to keizerartassociation@gmail.com.
Capi Lynn is a senior reporter for the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips to her at clynn@statesmanjournal.com, and follow her work on Twitter @CapiLynn and Facebook @CapiLynnSJ.
