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SALT LAKE CITY — Full of colorful, creative projects and exhibitions, the Utah Arts Festival begins June 26 and is meant to inspire.
The Arts Festival features painting, ceramics and drawing, but also one- of- a-kind wearable art and 3D mixed-media pieces.
Artist Neyda de la Peña is a first-timer at the Utah Arts Festival, and she’ll be showing her unique pictures that are made from the wood of old barns.
“I sculpt and draw different objects, trees, animals, people using different recyclable materials such as aluminum,” she said.
She said it means a lot to her to participate in the festival, and show something she is sure people will enjoy.
“I hope to contribute something different to art and this festival, for people to discover other ideas and other ways of thinking,” de la Peña said.
Besides the art, here are five more reasons to make the Arts Festival a priority this weekend.
1. The Food.
No outside food or drink is allowed, but that is no reason to starve. Featuring Greek, Japanese and Mexican cuisines and many kinds of dessert, it is best to come hungry to the festival and fill up on some of the delicious local fare. There are also chef competitions for those who enjoy creating, not just consuming, yummy food.
2. The Festival is eco-friendly.
Making an effort to recycle and use recycled goods is a mission of the Utah Arts Festival. The festival recycles plastic bottles and cups, aluminum cans, glass, cardboard, food scraps and vegetable oil. This year, it is also featuring a bike valet. If you pedal over to the festival, you’ll receive $2 off admission.
3. Live performances.
Dance, music and poetry will be featured on the festival stages, to add to the air of creativity and expression. Rock, bluegrass and world music by nationally renowned musicians will be mingled with some of the best of local music.
4. There are activities just for kids.
Children are invited to participate in creating the community art garden, including sculptures from upcycled items and adding color to a cow statue. There will be an “instrument petting zoo,” where kids can experiment with making their own music. The Tracy Aviary will also be on site, where kids can learn about birds, meet some birds and make a bird craft.
Event details: Thursday, June 26 - Sunday, June 29 Noon to 11 p.m. Library Square 200 East 400 South, Salt Lake City
