After a two-year hiatus, this spectacular event is back!

BY: RACHEL WUMKES

When the Clear Lake Arts Center wrapped up the 2019 Art Sail event, there was no way to know the massive detour they would soon take.  Closings. Cancellations.  Modified exhibits.

But finally, after a two-year hiatus, this beloved event is making a grand return to City Park.

On July 23rd, artists from across the Midwest – and even one from Arizona – will flock to City Park.  Positioning their tents under the shaded canopy of trees, it’s the ideal setting for a day enjoying the finer things in life.  Fifty-nine artists are currently registered for the event.  Many making the trip for the first time, bringing in a slew of new experiences for art lovers to enjoy.

“With so many first-time vendors, there will be some really cool items people have never seen,” noted Art Center Executive Director, Jessi Myers.  “But don’t worry,” she continued with a smile, “there will be plenty of fan favorites still in attendance.”

The Clear Lake Art Sail is an Iowa tradition.  Not only does it showcase talented artists, but it’s a place where the community can come together and celebrate the various forms of art.  If you’ve never been down to City Park to scope out these incredible vendors, this is your year!

And it’s not just the kind of art you hang on your walls.

The display of vendors branches out into metal work, sculpture, ceramics, fibers, glass, and jewelry.  Many even offer art projects for people to get some hands-on art experience while they enjoy the event.

The majority of artists will be stationed near the “top” of the park.  This is because the Iowa Storytelling Festival takes place at the same time near the bandshell.  Hosted by the Clear Lake Public Library, this family friendly event offers free performances by the Midwest’s finest storytellers from 10:30am to 3:30pm.

See? It’s a win-win all around.  Peruse the fabulous art vendors and plenty of fun for the kiddos to enjoy!

Isn’t Clear Lake just the best?

Since its initial running in the mid-1970s, the Art Sail has become a huge undertaking for the Art Center and its many volunteers.  “We’ve been working so hard to make sure it’s another great event,” said Jessi Myers.  “It’s really a collaboration to bring the community together.”

Their volunteers provide assistance to the artists and vendors, whether it be booth sitting while they step away for a bit, or as a runner.  If you are interested in helping during the Art Sail, please contact Jessi Myers at the Art Center – 641-357-1998 – to find the best fit for you.

Another fun addition to the event this year is something of a scavenger hunt to encourage patrons to visit local restaurants and retailers around town.  They will use an added element of “invisible art” to make the game even more fun.  Each visit throughout the day earns an entry into drawings held at the close of the event.  Be sure to follow the Arts Center on Facebook for more details to emerge.

Talk about a community collaboration!

To round out the ambiance of this beautiful event, two musicians will be stationed near the art vendors at the top of the park.  Jarno Solo will play from 9am to noon, and Liv McNair rounds out the day from noon to 3pm.  These local acts are fan-favorites, providing smooth tunes for your enjoyment all day long.

Art is something that can be enjoyed at any age, in any capacity.  You don’t even need to know anything about art and still enjoy its beauty and uniqueness.  The Art Sail is the perfect opportunity to dive in headfirst and immerse yourself in a day of culture.

Stop by.  Take a look around.  Enjoy the beauty of Clear Lake’s City Park as it’s filled with life and activity. And maybe… just maybe… you’ll find that next incredible piece which fills your soul with joy!

Check out all the details and stay up to date on the Art Sail 2022 Facebook event found here –> https://www.facebook.com/events/698564054780102