First Annual Art in the Park event showcases local artisans by Jennifer Davis

Artist Tori Leavitt shows off her drawings.

It was a beautiful fall day to find local artisans gathered together at the first Annual Art in the Park event on Saturday, October 14 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event was held by the Windham Parks and Recreation Department at the Windham Town Hall playground.
 

“The purpose of this event was to showcase the talents of our local artists and musicians,” stated Linda Brooks, Windham Parks and Recreation Director, “and we certainly accomplished that.” 

This year’s Art in the Park event hosted eight local artists and crafters, bringing with them: fiber arts, quilted bags, photography, paintings, jewelry and other crafts and art.  “I love to show off my art,” stated Tori Leavitt, a 7th grader and Windham Middle School student, who featured her beautiful drawings at the event.  

To participate in this year’s event, each participant was required to register with the Parks and Recreation Department but there was no fee required to participate.  

Michael Shaughnessy, a University of Southern Maine professor, was asked by the Parks and Recreation Department to help create a collaborative community art project during the event which could be seen when walking the area near the playground where the event was held.  The best part was that people of all ages contributed to the project.  

Adding to the festivities were three local musical performers that included Lighthouse Jubilees, Stuart Gabaree and Windham Center Stage Theater performing selections from their production of Addams Family. The atmosphere was welcoming.

Although this is the first Art in the Park event, the intent is to host this event every year and to continue growing it by adding more artists and crafters each year.  “It is something to grow on,” said Brooks as she described this year’s event that followed the Annual Public Safety Fair.

The talent that surrounds us is amazing and the Annual Art in the Park event is a great way to display that talent. Those interested in participating in next year’s Art in the Park should contact the Windham Parks and Recreation Department.  

Keep an eye out for upcoming events held by the Windham Parks and Recreation Department by visiting their website. Halloween Adventure and Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 28 and the Community Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 26 are a few of the events to look forward to in the upcoming weeks.