| Art on The Porches is a family-friendly, festival-like event that promotes the work of local artists and entertainers, showcases the architecture of Strathmore's historic homes, and extends the neighborhood's rich history in the arts. The event debuted in 2001, when the Greater Strathmore Neighborhood Association wanted to host an event that would promote the historic neighborhood. Board members Sue Boyle and Linda Abbey, created the idea of a neighborhood art show and sale on the porches of the historic neighborhood homes on Summit Avenue. The event showcased the work 18 local artists and 6 musicians. The entire event was planned on a budget of only $500.00, and the show was a great success. In 2002, the show was moved to Ruskin Avenue where a café and stage were added, and the street was closed to traffic. 25 artists participated in the show, and the Hands on Art Center made its debut. With the help of the Commercial Art Supply store, the center provided a setting for artist demonstrations and mini painting classes. The Cultural Resources Council provided funding for musicians and theatrical performances. By 2003, the show was growing so quickly...we needed more space! We moved the show to the 100 block of Stolp Avenue and all of Beverly Road. Sarah Gilbert came on board as the Entertainment Director. There were 60 artists, 18 porches, several tents, 5 stages, and a café. The show was terrific. Thanks to a grant from the Cultural Resources Council and John DeFrancisco, we were able to grow the show leaps and bounds. The event included the Maya Belly dance tribe, Open Hand Theater, mimes, fire eaters, Schola Cantorum, and renaissance singers. It was a full festival atmosphere celebrating all art forms. In 2004, the show returned to Ruskin Avenue. The weather did not cooperate, but the art and entertainment were both terrific and the artists seemed to sell quite a bit of work. Everyone survived the rain! In 2005, the event returned to Beverly Road and the 100 block of Stolp Avenue. After three years of coordinating the event, Sue Boyle stepped down and Strathmore resident, Sarah Gilbert, stepped in. Roberts School hosted an art open house the week before the event. The open house displayed the students' art work. In 2006, the event returned to Ruskin Avenue where pirates roamed the streets kidnapping unsuspecting (but willing) event goers, children created masterpieces at the Hands on Art Center, and the musical lineup provided entertainment for everyone. The art was a perfect blend of all mediums...oil, sculpture, watercolors, pen and ink, pottery, jewelry ... and all available (as usual) in a variety of price ranges. Thai food was sold along with American fare. The GSNA sold souvenir t-shirts and original show posters designed by Strathmore's own Erin McKenna Nowak. And to beat it all.....Mother nature smiled upon us for a change with a beautiful sunny day! This year, the show returns to Ruskin Avenue on Saturday, June 16, 2007 from 11 AM to 5 PM. The event, in it's seventh year, has grown to be a wonderful festival that promotes all forms of art and entertainment, welcomes families, and promotes the rich history of Strathmore. The event, being coordinated by Strathmore resident Charlene Bozzi, promises to be a huge success. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available. Please contact Charlene Bozzi (charbozzi@yahoo.com) for more information. |
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