RICHMOND, VA – The 54th annual Arts in the Park event brought together more than 350 local artists at Byrd Park this past weekend, highlighting the vibrant art scene of the Richmond region. The two-day event, hosted by the Carillon Civic Association, ran from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, offering an opportunity for both seasoned art collectors and casual art enthusiasts to explore a variety of original creations.
The diverse selection of artwork included paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, and metal sculptures, with each piece showcasing the talent and creativity of Richmond’s local artists. Among the featured artists was Susannah Raine, who shared her passion for incorporating nature into her art. “I use a lot of paint, plants, and animals, and it’s been great to see people’s reactions,” Raine said. “It’s a great way to show it off and show that there are all different kinds of price points for you to have original art in your home.”
Visitors at the event were able to interact directly with artists, discussing their work and gaining insights into their creative processes. The event not only offered a chance to buy art but also to connect with the artists themselves. Michael Paulschievone, an artist with five years of experience, spoke about the importance of such events for local creatives. “It’s been fantastic. There’s genuine interest in the art, discussions about the pieces, and excitement for the arts. That’s one of the reasons it makes Richmond such a great city,” Paulschievone commented.
Some of the standout artists featured at the event included Scott Harris, known for his distinctive paintings; Sam Little, who showcased his hand-crafted pottery; Brent McGuirt, whose photography captured the essence of Richmond’s landscapes; Jaron Reeser, who displayed unique metal artwork; and Renee Kaelber, who presented elegant, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.
The Arts in the Park show was praised for its well-curated selection, which provided a platform for a wide range of artistic expressions. “It’s a well-curated show and a fantastic opportunity for a diverse variety of artists to show what they can do,” said Paulschievone. “It’s very local, which is great for the community.”
The event successfully fostered a sense of community engagement, with attendees and artists alike celebrating the role of art in Richmond’s cultural landscape. As the festival continues to grow in prominence, it stands as a testament to the thriving artistic community that makes Richmond a unique destination for art lovers.
For those who missed this year’s show, organizers are already looking forward to next year’s event, promising even more exciting opportunities to discover original local artwork.
