Applications open for Art-a-Fest vendors in Charles City’s Central Park

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

Applications are open for creative vendors to participate in the 52nd annual Art-a-Fest.

Scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 16, the long-running arts show will again pack Central Park with up to 50 artists selected to display their works, from paintings to pottery.

“We’ve had probably about ten applicants submit so far,” said committee chair Ashley Koebrick Schmidt. “Space is limited, but we’re hopeful for a full park again this year.”

Unlike previous years, applications for this year’s Art-a-Fest are going completely digital to avoid the logistical complications that can come from paper forms. The online submission form can be found on the Charles City Art-a-Fest website at www.charlescityartafest.com/apply, and Koebrick Schmidt says that artists who want help submitting an application can reach out for assistance.

“Applications are online only. We are no longer accepting paper applications,” said Koebrick Schmidt. “If anybody does need help, they just have to get a hold of one of us.”

The deadline for vendor applications is May 31, at which point applicants will be evaluated to determine if they are a good fit for the show.

“We accept basically any medium, but our jury panel reviews each application based on a variety of things,” said Koebrick Schmidt.

Applicants should be notified that they’ve been approved by mid-June.

Art-a-Fest is planned by a committee that includes Koebrick Schmidt and Charles City Arts Center Director Emily Kiewel along with two new members, Shannon Griffin and Jessica Gintz, who Koebrick Schmidt said hopes will bring new ideas to the event.

While the vendor application period has already begun, planning for the show itself will start up next week as the committee begins its work arranging for the August event.

“We’re all crossing our fingers for good weather again this year,” said Koebrick Schmidt.