Just like last year, ICFF fell on the same weekend as the SoWa Art Walk. Lucky for me, VenuView’s Crystal J. Silva went and offered her thoughts on the happenings in the South End. Thanks Crystal!
It couldn’t have been a better day for the opening of the 2010 season of SoWa Open Market and the SoWA Art Walk! The occasional gusts of wind were no match for the excitement in the air from both vendors and attendees alike.
The nearby galleries were inviting and unintimidating making it a relaxed atmosphere and great for first-timers. This event was definitely the time to take advantage of the special discounts offered if you had your eyes on something for a while or just wanted to indulge in a spontaneous purchase that wouldn’t make you feel guilty! The local bands and music played were entertaining and provided a great way to pass the time when needing to take a break from walking in the sun. Parking was easy, free and close by which was a pleasant surprise to all.
The Open Market had some certain stand-outs representing — like Catalina Delatorre, Hijacked Ceramics, F Rock Bags, and Margo Petitti — although many of the booths offered mom & pop-like crafts or artisans that were mediocre at best. After speaking to others attending the event, it was evident that they would like to see the event management draw more fine or “high craft” items and vendors than what was presented, to bring about a more balanced offering to the public and to be in keeping with their surrounding neighbors.
My NICHE Award nominee would go to the lovely young lady Sarah Anne Dinardo. She shared with us that her interesting designs came about while sitting in art class. Instead of doodling in her notebook, she started to roll the nearby masking tape. Sara’s three dimensional rolled tape sculptures were both unique and eye catching. I look forward to seeing her new designs in upcoming events.
The SoWa Open Market and the SoWA Art Walk was a lovely way to spend part of your day and well worth the leisurely stroll!
Crystal J. Silva
VENU, LLC.
www.venuview.com
Did you make it to the SoWa Art Walk this past weekend? What’d you think?