St. Charles art show bigger, better

The St. Charles Fine Art Show, held annually on Memorial Day weekend in downtown St. Charles, has expanded this year to include more than 100 local and regional exhibitors showcasing and selling their art during the two-day show. In addition, the show is introducing a new feature called Studio Row.

The Fine Art Show, which is organized by the Downtown St. Charles Partnership, had the highest level of artist interest since the show began 13 years ago, which they credit to the reputation of the show, as well as an online application process that was implemented this year.

The online process gives the show a larger audience, geographically, than in the past. All of the artists had to submit their work and go through a jury process before being invited to participate in the show.

“We are thrilled with the response that we received, and were able to be very selective during the process. Not only will this show be the largest in its history, but our standards have remained extremely high, allowing us to showcase only the highest quality art,” said Sue McDowell, who has been on the Fine Art Show committee since the show began.

In addition to more artists’ booths, the Fine Art Show introduces Studio Row, featuring four art studios that will be exhibiting and selling the works of multiple artists.

This will be held on 1st Street, along with a hands-on mosaic activity for children.

The professional artist booths will be on South Riverside Drive, between Main Street and Illinois Avenue. There will be a variety of mediums exhibited, including watercolor, oil, sculpture, photography, jewelry, ceramics, fiber, wood and glass. There will also be some on-site demonstrations and live music performances throughout the show.

The St. Charles Fine Art Show is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 28, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 29.

For more information about the Fine Art Show, visit the website at stcharlesfineartshow.com.