To Do in RI: Wickford Art Festival – new artists, activities, music, a best of Rhode Island event

The 61st Wickford Art Festival welcomes an exciting array of new and veteran fine artists on July 13th and 14th, 2024. Look at the map – look up the artists – make a plan!

With a tradition dating back over six decades, the Wickford Art Festival has long been
celebrated as one of the premier art events on the East Coast. Nestled in the picturesque village of Wickford, Rhode Island. The festival draws art enthusiasts, collectors, and visitors from near and far to experience the diverse and dynamic world of fine art.

New Artists

Among the exciting newcomers to this year’s festival are a select group of emerging and
well revered artists, including vibrant encaustic paintings by Chelsea Villegas of New
Jersey, to intricately crafted medal sculptures by Jeff Whittum, a RI native who currently
resides in East Kingston, NH.

Meet Western Massachusetts based fine photographer Trevor Shea whose work is “inspired by my love for nature and all the wonderful hidden natural beauty it has to offer us in New England.”

Tammy Blais from Groton, CT will showcase her “unique and happy” paintings which are “whimsical in nature, textured and light.”

These fresh talents bring a sense of innovation and creativity that promises to captivate audiences and invigorate the artistic landscape.

Rhode Island artists making their debut at the festival include Eric Sturtevant, who is
known for his captivating illustrated children’s books, will be featuring his original
watercolor, ink and pencil illustrations. Look for Providence based glass artist
Christopher Belleau at this year’s festival – many may remember Belleau’s gallery in
Wickford for several years before he opened a new gallery on Wickenden Street, and is now in

his studio in East Providence. Fine jewelry artist Thea Izzi from Cranston joins the
lineup this year and wood work by artist Luke Orachardo of Wakefield will also be
making his debut.

Returning Artists

In addition to welcoming new artists, the 61st Wickford Art Festival showcases the return of its much anticipated veterans whose work has become synonymous with the event’s legacy of excellence. North Kingstown native fine photographer Cate Brown will return with her iconic vibrant ocean and outdoor pieces. Long time festival artist, Flo Kemp, who travels from NY state and specializes in soft ground etchings will be in town, along with her daughter Karen Kemp who does monotype prints will also be returning this year after a brief hiatus.

Look for fan favorite painter of classic New England scenes and fields of poppies by Carlos Rios. Judith Secco returns with her stunning fine photography, award winning acrylic painter Bruce Dumas who exhibits in fine art festivals across the country, and fine ceramic artist Jillian Barber of Jamestown with her enchanting portrait masks and mythical creatures.

These seasoned artists, with their mastery of technique and profound artistic vision,
continue to inspire and delight festival-goers year after year. Attendees can look forward to exploring a wide range of mediums, styles, and artistic perspectives as they stroll through the open air gallery that emerges in Wilson Park, with historic Wickford Village steps away filled with classic colonial homes, beautiful harbor views, waterfront restaurants and unique boutiques.

For a full list of artists:

https://wickfordart.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2024_Exhibitors-List_WAF.pdf

Admission: Admission is always free and as an added bonus to fine art collectors, Rhode Island does not collect sales tax on fine art sales.

Parking: A suggested $10 donation onsite at Wilson Park (211 West Main St), offsite at First Church of Christ, Scientist (55 Tower Hill Road – walking distance to park), or offsite at Wickford Middle School (280 Philips Street). A complimentary shuttle will run from Wickford Middle School to Wilson Park, and Brown St. in Wickford Village. Parking is also available at the town’s public lots and permitted street parking on West Main Street, Main Street, Brown Street.

Food: A variety of some of Rhode Islands best food trucks will be onsite at Wilson Park including Newport Chowder Company, Sunset Farms, Gansett Poke, Sam’s NY System, Little B’s BBQ and Kettle Corn Express. Cool off with a Del’s Lemonade or get your coffee fix from expert roasters North Koffee. Plus, a short walk away in Wickford Village enjoy quaint cafes for a lite bite at Alma’s Juice Bar or Shayna’s Place. Stop in The Place or Mickey’s for pizza, grinders, burgers and more. Enjoy waterfront dining at Wickford on the Water or Tavern by the Sea, great seafood at Gardner’s Wharf or the best Italian cuisine at Tate’s Italian Kitchen!

Activities – Make a peace flag – Music: Attendees can look forward to a dynamic lineup of Entertainment and activities for all ages. Follow the scenic Bush Hill Trail that will lead you to your “Path to Creativity” with the Eco-Land Art Project as you decorate your own peace flag and learn how to tap into your creativity inspired by the nature around you. The path will lead you to live music by local artists at 11am, 1pm & 3pm brought to you by the North Kingstown Arts Council.

Strawberry Shortcake – a Wickford Art Festival tradition: The First Baptist Church of Wickford at 44 Main Street will be serving up their legendary strawberry shortcakes along with more family fun, crafts and entertainment all weekend.

For more information about the festival, including a list of participating artists and event details, visit www.wickfordart.org.

Maps! To download a map of artist and feature locations:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17vs7ARXxyBbPnBvVb3gYX1FX6qcmc6u5/view

Maps are also available at the event and would be a good first step to take when you get there to enjoy the event entirely.

About Wickford Art Association:
The Wickford Art Association is a non-profit organization with approximately 500 members from
Rhode Island and across New England. The association hosts art exhibits, classes, lectures,
and workshops in its North Kingstown gallery and has produced the summertime Wickford Art
Festival since 1962. Wickford Art Association is dedicated to educating, encouraging and
inspiring artists and art lovers throughout the community. For more information call (401)
294-6840 or visit wickfordart.org.