Artistic Expression Abounds with Color and Creativity
Community Hosts Local, National and International Artists
Colorful paintings, dazzling jewelry, intriguing metalwork, distinctive ceramics and vibrant musicians enliven the streets of Castle Rock every September, the weekend after Labor Day. 2008 will be the nineteenth season hosting the eclectic works of over 180 juried artists from across the nation.
In 2007, the Artfest became an international event with international artist, Tirivanhu Medziso from Zimbabwe, as a guest sculpturist. Medziso’s hand-carved stone sculptures were part of the extensive variety of art pieces, including original paintings, handcrafted jewelry, stunning photography, hand-blown glassware, pottery, metal works and textiles that are for sale.
“Artfest, which draws over 23,000 spectators, has grown into the largest event in the Castle Rock area, said Pam Ridler, CCE, President and CEO of the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is proud to be the organizer of the event that started in 1990”.
This popular festival have something for the entire family, including continuous live, music; food, beer and soda vendors; strolling entertainment such as puppeteers, clowns and storytellers and an Imagination Zone with interactive art and cultural activities for the kids.
In addition, a silent auction is held during the two days of Artfest to benefit the Castle Rock Community Art Fund. Participating Artfest artists generously donate their art to the silent auction. The Fund, established by the Castle Rock Chamber, helps to finance outdoor art pieces for the Town in order to leave a legacy of Artfest.
“Artfest not only promotes the community and offers a fun and family-oriented weekend, remarked Ridler, but is a significant revenue-generating source for the local economy, both of which are major focuses of the Chamber. There is a small admission fee of $4 ($3 for seniors) and children under 12 are free.
The Chamber also hosts a merchandise booth selling the current and past years’ commemorative prints, t-shirts and tiles with original works of art and holiday ornaments. Much of the merchandise is created by artists specifically for the Artfest and specialty packages with goodies donated by local merchants round out the offerings.
It all adds up to a weekend filled with color and creativity, a cultural event for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your appetite for lunch in our food court with hometown favorites such as barbequed ribs and homemade ice cream served with a helping of great musical entertainment. There is something for every age and every preference at Artfest, Castle Rock’s signature community event.
In 2007, Castle Rock, Colorado was ranked number 1 by Family Circle Magazine as the best place to raise a family.