Check out miniature works of art and support a local nonprofit at First Friday Art Walk Feb. 3 in downtown Springfield.
First Friday Art Walk is a monthly effort in which galleries and businesses line up arts-related events across downtown Springfield. The public is encouraged to walk downtown and pop into many of the galleries in what organizers call a “self-guided tour.” Venues are open variable hours between 5 and 10 p.m. for February.
Mini Art Show grand opening at Formed: An Artist Collective
The popular Mini Art Show returns to in-person viewing and purchasing, and Art Walkers can see it at Formed: An Artist Collective (210 E. Walnut). The Post-It-sized art show is also a sale and proceeds will benefit local nonprofit On Angels’ Wings.
“We’re very excited about this year’s show,” said Bridget Koonce, one of the Mini Art Show’s organizers. “We started the Mini Art Show probably six years ago at our brick-and-mortar shop called Rosette Studios downtown. When we closed that location, it kind of went away. It went online a year ago and this is the first time it’s back in a gallery.”
The Mini Art Show aims “to make art available for an easily attainable price, to empower everyone to make art, and to give back to our community.” Koonce estimates about 40 artists will have their work on display at Formed, though their online gallery will probably have triple that number. All pieces are available for purchase for $12.
Past charities for the Mini Art Show have included C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue. The mission of On Angels’ Wings, this year’s charity, is to improve the mental health and wellness of families with medically fragile children (regardless of race, ethnicity, class status or orientation) through therapeutic photography and grief recovery services, free of charge.
“The Mini Art Show is for everyone,” Koonce said. “It’s easy to participate and if people miss this time, they can go online and do it or catch it at Formed next year. We welcome everyone, as long as they follow the rules. We’ve had children do it and we’ve had longtime artists do it. We keep the costs low, too, so everyone feels like they can afford art.”
Funky Flaura's joins Art Walk
There’s a new stop to check out on the First Friday Art Walk circuit. Funky Flaura’s Unique Floral Design is open at 320 Park Central West. The shop will feature local multimedia artist and entrepreneur Jeremiah Gill.
The exhibition will consist of colorful, floral and spring-themed works. There will be original watercolors, illustrations and prints available. Stop in and enjoy sweet treats and coffee while you browse the artwork and check out the store.
SRAC hosts ‘Caught My Eye’ opening reception at Creamery Arts Center
Enjoy art, live music and free refreshments at the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s “Caught My Eye” opening reception. The event will be held at the Creamery Arts Center (411 N. Sherman Parkway). The exhibition features artists from the SRAC’s yearly member show.
“Their Visual Arts Committee has curated an amazing show with pieces from Stephen Evans, Sarah Griggs, Heidi Herrman, Ashley Laren, Mike Myers, Jamie Quirk, John Rutkowsk and Lauren Smith,” a press release said.
Award-winning interior designer and photographer featured at Obelisk Home
Obelisk Home (214 W. Phelps, Suite 101) features guest artist Colby Kern at February’s Art Walk. The award-winning interior designer and photographer is featuring his newest collection of work, “Get Lost.” Painting is a newer art form for him, but Kern continues to experiment and grow as an artist.
“In this collection of work, I was inspired by places I’ve been,” Kern said in a press release. “I turned to memories created on journeys where my soul felt most free. Each piece represents a time, place and emotion.
Other venues for February’s First Friday Art Walk include:
- BookMarx, 325 E. Walnut St., Suite 101
- Brick City Galleries, 215 W. Mill
- The Carolla Arts Exhibition Center, 326 No. Boonville
- Drury University Pool Arts Gallery, 900 N. Benton Ave.
- Fresh Gallery, 401 N. Boonville
- Hold Fast Brewing, 235 N. Kimbrough Ave.
- J.L. Long Traders, 318 W. Walnut St.
- Park Central Library Branch, 128 Park Central Square
For more information, call 417-862-2787 or visit the First Friday Art Walk website.
