The fields of Buchanan Park will be transformed into canvases of artistic expression when the Evergreen Artists Association presents the Evergreen Fine Arts Festival, August 24-25 from 10 am – 5 pm each day. Accenting the landscape will be dozens of booths featuring juried selections of all media: clay, drawing, glass, jewelry, mixed media, sculpture, painting, photography, metal and wood.
Meet the Artists
The artists, many of whom travel from across the country to this annual sought-after exhibition, will be present to speak to visitors about their works and offer onsite demonstrations of their creativity.
“Having our talented artists in their booths really draws people in to ask questions and learn more about traditional and emerging art forms,” says Julie Sims, EAA president, festival director, and jewelry designer specializing in heirloom and custom jewelry. “People do not realize how long the design process takes. It’s a real learning experience when they see the artists creating their artwork in person.”
Jan Bushart, a landscape artist who has taken part in the Fine Arts Festival for the last 14 years, says the Evergreen-based event is one of her favorites. “What makes it attractive is that the show is run by a local organization, EAA, and not by an outside promoter,” Bushart explains. “The organizers really take care of the artists, and their hearts are in making this a wonderful experience. The works are fine art and are very carefully juried, which has earned a favorable reputation for the show. Plus, it has both regional and national representation.”
Supporting Aspiring Artists
Education is a key focus for the EAA, which was founded in 1958 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 1972 to promote the appreciation and enjoyment of the visual arts. The EAA also raises funds to encourage the development of young artists. Each year the EAA provides a High School Scholarship Award of $1,750 to a graduating high school senior or homeschooler who will go on to study fine art at the university level. 2024 scholarship winner Ainsley Clagett, a graduate of Conifer High School, is pursuing costume design in film at the State University of New York at New Paltz. According to Sims, the EAA distributes approximately $5,000 in grants and scholarships to art departments in the foothills’ area schools to promote art education and tap into the creativity of young people. The nonprofit is hoping to expand its financial donations to community artists and schools with the help of local sponsors.
Last year’s high school scholarship recipient, Grace Gill, is interning with the EAA for the festival ahead of her sophomore year studying Art Education at the University of Northern Colorado.
Colorado resident artists who have participated in no more than one outdoor art festival prior to applying for the Evergreen Fine Arts Festival are considered for one of three “Emerging Artist” spots, a designation which gives them a festival booth at a reduced cost. An Emerging Artist is mentored by the show’s veterans both on the creative and business aspects of the profession. This year’s recipients are Matthew Muse of Pine, Lauren Voigt of Evergreen, and Teresa Volgenau of Westminster.
Two-Day Musical Lineup to Set the Perfect Tone
“While our focus is dedicated to the visual arts, Andy Potter has coordinated an exceptional program of Colorado musicians who will create the mood for strolling through the festival,” said Sims.
Saturday’s entertainment begins at 10:15 am with a performance by Andy Potter to be followed by Lalo Hart, Concrete Feedback, and Foothill Flyers. Sunday’s program begins at 10:15 am with Wife Swap, followed by El Javi, Family Recipe, and Aleik Maddox.
Family Fun, Food and Free Shuttles
The Fine Arts Festival will have attractions for children including face painting, interactive art projects and games. There will also be an ice cream truck on hand for kiddos of all ages. Culinary options will include Chuck Wagon, a completely gluten-free food truck, Alchemy’s A La Mode, Key’s Concessions, Rocky Mountain Lemon Shakers, Lazo Empanadas, Rocky Mountain Wraps, The Captain Tacos and Sushi, and Slife’s Devil Dogs. Wine, beer, margaritas, seltzers and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase.
As with most events at Buchanan Fields, there are designated parking areas within walking distance, or free shuttles to the festival from Bergen Meadow and Evergreen Middle Schools. The lot adjacent to the festival will be open for donation-based parking to benefit local nonprofits and for disabled parking. For parking information, and complete lists of vendors and participating artists, go to evergreenfineartsfestival.com
“We want to welcome as many people to the festival as possible to enjoy and experience the artwork,” says Sims. “With a variety of price points, from artist originals to smaller works, there is something for everyone. We love supporting artists and the arts in our beautiful community.”
