Members of the Village Art Club of Bella Vista decided to take advantage of the wind that residents and visitors to Bella Vista become quite aware of this time of the year in our hills and valleys. The organization is hosting the first Wind Festival and Kite Flying competition as an addition to the annual Art on the Creek Arts and Crafts Festival on May 6.
The grounds of Wishing Spring Gallery and Studio on McNelly Road in Bella Vista, is the location for the one-day event. Some of the activities specifically designed for the young and young at heart include origami folding, face painting, touch and explore table, bouncy house, pinwheel making, and story telling with Miss Sarah and -- of course -- kite flying.
Festival Director Elaine Reinke recently challenged students from Thomas Jefferson Elementary School's art program to decorate and make kites with supplies provided. Those who participate will have their entry judged on a number of criteria and will participate in flying their kites with judges determining the winners during each of three competitions throughout the day.
Elaine offered a long list of activities suitable for families to come out and enjoy the day.
"We are so very excited to encourage young families to come join the fun while experiencing art in so many forms," she said.
"This is exciting for all of us too."
Proceeds from the festival will further the mission of the Village Art Club to supply art scholarships and continuing art education for Northwest Arkansas students.
Free and fee-based kite kits will be available to allow everyone an opportunity to create and fly their creation. Look for a list of age groups and specific times for kite flying posted on the grounds the day of the festival.
Food vendors will tempt throughout the day. Artisans will present their handcrafted wares on the grounds, in the studio, along the bike path and in Wishing Spring Arts and Crafts Gallery.
Other activities on the grounds will be several opportunities to learn more about the Village Art Club's scholarship program, kid's summer art camps, art classes for all ages, observe plein aire artists at work and more.
The festival's location is 8862 W. McNelly Road, Bella Vista, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 71 andMcNelly Road. Look to the east and you will see balloons, the big, blue barn.
Admission and parking are free. Contact information: www.villageartclub.org, and www.wishingspringallery.org.
Community on 04/19/2017