More than 6,000 people showed up to take in what’s considered the largest art show in the B.C. Interior as Lake Country ArtWalk 2013 took place last weekend (Sept. 7 and 8) at various locations around the community.
Hundreds of artists from around the Okanagan Valley showed off a variety of works, from live painting sessions to original art and all with live music in the background as musicians played on four different stages.
“Congratulations to all of the 300 artists who offered such unique and original artworks for everyone to enjoy,” said Sharon McCoubrey, chair of the Lake Country ArtWalk committee. “We have a tremendous asset in the Okanagan Valley when we consider such creativity. It is always fun to see the results of the People’s Choice voting, not a definitive judging of the artists, but the opinion of those who choose to cast a vote for their favourite artist.”
This year marked the 20th anniversary of the ArtWalk in Lake Country and this year was one of the best in terms of the quality of the art, the number of people who made it out and the many smiles on people’s faces, said McCoubrey.
“There was much to celebrate in this 20th anniversary festival,” she said. “The ArtWalk Committee may be tired, but they are rejoicing as they watched so many smiles and listened to so many comments of praise as the visitors to this festival clearly were having a good time.”
Among the highlights was a Buddy Holly tribute show, which was a sold out and filled Creekside Theatre with the lively music that kept the audience bouncing, laughing and loving it. Toes tapped all weekend as an impressive line-up of musicians performed on four stages.
“This year’s ArtWalk also included some some unique and entertaining events, such as the group of creative young people who performed a painting awakening and the brave artists who participated in timed painting sessions. Overall, ArtWalk 2013 was a huge success,” said McCoubrey.
People’s Choice votes:
1. Greg Metz, West Kelowna
2. Denis Weber, Kelowna
3. Charla Maarschulk, Kelowna
4. Alex Fong, Kelowna
5. James Hayes, Lake Country
6. Bonnie Roberts, Keremeos
7. Juve Furtado, Vernon
8. Christian Reiner, Lake Country
9. Diane, Palmer, Kelowna
10. Megan Wise, Kelowna
