Historic Coventry Village will be host to an “Arts On Main” event on Saturday, August 24. Taking place from 11a-3p, the day will include art workshops, art vendors, children’s activities, musical performances, food vendors, a collection of sculptures by world renowned local sculptor David Hayes, free face painting, balloon art and more. Main Street merchants and restaurants will be open, showcasing their specialties. The several antique and collectibles shops will be a particular draw.
Following major renovations along Main Street (Route 31), this day-long event is meant to bring public attention to Main Street’s new look and to find ways to continue to support the local business community as well as showcase visual and performing arts. The Town of Coventry, along with the Coventry Arts Guild, and the recently formed Coventry Village Partners, have become a collaborative team that is planning this Day of Arts for the community.
A special highlight of the day is a juried exhibition, reception and awards program for the Coventry Plein Air Festival, which has been ongoing since spring. “Plein Air” artists have been and continue to set up easels throughout Coventry Village and the town creating works that reflect the area’s beauty and character. Coordinated by the Coventry Arts Guild, The Plein Air exhibit will be set up in the renovated Mill Brook Place (formerly known as the historic Tracy Shoddy Mill). Mill Brook Place is located in the rear of the parking lot at 1267 Main Street. The gallery will also be open to the public the weekend of the 24th along with the following weekend, ending September 1. See details online at: http://coventryartsguild.org
Another feature of the day will be musical performances and a food court in the parking lot of the First Congregational Church on Main Street. The First Congregational Church will also hold a BBQ throughout the afternoon.
Many art activities are planned on the lawn of the Booth Dimock library. Sidewalk chalk art will be being created on the sidewalks lining Main Street. A second performance stage on Main Street will focus on entertainment for children, including a magic show, and interactive music and dance offerings.
The Coventry Village businesses are also a focus of the event. A “Business Passport” will be available for attendees of the event to bring to a business they visit in the Village to have “punched”. Attendees can enter their passport into a drawing to win prizes donated by local businesses, individuals and companies.
“Arts On Main” is free to attend and open to the public. Shuttle buses will be available at the GH Robertson School and the Captain Nathan Hale Middle School.
Arts Vendors are currently being sought (http://coventryartsguild.org/artfest.html). For more information on being a vendor, or to volunteer to help, contact the Coventry Arts Guild at: info@coventryartsguild.org.
Please visit the “ArtsOnMainCoventry” Facebook page for more details leading up to the event as well as the day’s schedule of events. For further information and/or to find out ways to be involved, contact Eric Trott at 860-742-4062.