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Founded 05-05-05

Twenty-First Annual Spring Fest Celebrated April 21

Story by Celeste von Mangan

Art activities will abound at Spring Fest 2007 this Saturday, April 21, at the West Jefferson School in Ashe County. Spring Fest begins at 9:00 a.m. and continues until 2:00 p.m. The goal of Spring Fest, according to host and sponsor Ashe County Arts Council, is to “entertain and open your eyes with new experiences in the arts.” The theme is Moving With the Arts.

More than three dozen projects in clay, sculpture, weaving, printmaking, silkscreening, basketry, quilting, face painting, jewelry making and other craft activities will be available to participants. All the projects are free except a nominal $3 fee to silkscreen a T-shirt with the festival logo.

“Spring Fest is in its 21st year,” said Rebecca Herman of the Ashe County Arts Council. “It’s a longstanding Arts Council tradition. The fest provides a daylong celebration of the arts for children in our community and it is an opportunity for children and adults to experience new art forms or to participate in the student talent show. Spring Fest also provides an opportunity for the community to come together to support children and the arts.”

Other highlights of the event include exhibits from all Ashe County schools featuring student artwork and demonstrations by local artists in quilting, woodcarving, weaving, spinning and watercolors.

Roving entertainers are also heading to the event. Chaz performs magic and clown Chris Cary creates balloon sculptures. Jef the mime and juggler will be roving, as will the Magical Minstrel of Music and Mayhem. Animal lovers of all ages can enjoy a petting zoo, and the popular youth talent show featuring student performances will continue throughout the fest. Other onstage talent includes singers, dancers, actors and gymnasts. Bring your own picnic lunch or purchase pizza, nachos, cookies, ice cream and drinks from vendors in the lobby of the school.

For more info, call 336-846-ARTS.

Want To Go?

Date: Saturday, April 21
Time: 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Location: West Jefferson School, 406 School Avenue
Cost: Free

Sixteenth Very Special Arts Festival April 20

On Friday, April 20, the Ashe County Arts Council will hosts its sixteenth annual Very Special Arts Festival for exceptional students and adults. Performers include Chaz the Magician, clown Chris Cary, Jef the Mime and Dale Brooks. Throughout the festival, Lisa Baldwin will provide music performances and activities. For more info, call 336-846-ARTS.