Art Walk to Feature Actors, Buskers, Magicians and More

Gulfport Art Walk, which has become a cherished tradition in the Gulfport community and in the Tampa Bay area. As the event has grown over the years, we have seen its success grow, but have also seen a number of similar competing events get started in other communities. In order to strengthen Art Walk in Gulfport, and to build on its success, the Gulfport Merchants Association are planning some initiatives that they would like to share with you.

To begin with, on Third Saturday Art Walks, The Gulfport Merchants have started a program of extra paid entertainment consisting of actors, buskers, musicians, magicians and other "colorful" folks throughout the Art Walk area that are intended to interact with visitors and bring an extra level of festivity and energy to the event. It was experimented in June with great reception. For the Third Saturday, the Gulfport Merchants are developing an identity of high-energy fun and colorful antics on the street that blends well with your own contributions to the event as artists.

Next, beginning in November, The Merchants will institute a "Fine Arts Friday" program during First Friday Art Walks. This will consist of a separate block on Beach Blvd. that is currently unused during Art Walk (between 28th and 29th Avenues) in which a number of established local fine artists and craftspersons who will not only be selling their work, but will also be demonstrating their art and craft for visitors to see. Many art mediums such as pottery wheel, fiber spinning, metal forging, hot glass work, etc will be live and in view!

With building the success of Art Walk, The Merchants feel it's important to maintain and raise the standards for art and craft work represented to the highest level possible. An "Events Committee" has been composed of Gulfport Merchants Association members who will review all new art and craft applications to assure that quality standards are met by any interested vendors. It is important to note that no new vendors of "resale items" will be permitted for Art Walks.

The Gulfport Merchants hope that these changes for more live art and live entertainment will help strengthen the event and make it as successful as possible for both the community, visitors and for participating vendors.

For more information on the Gulfport Art Walk, contact 727-322-5217 or check out their website at http://gulfportma.com/gma-events/art-walks.

Visit the Gulfport Art Walk this Saturday, July 21 from 6 - 10 p.m. on Beach Blvd. in the heart of the Gulfport Waterfront District.

Thank you to the City of Gulfport for providing this information in the city's weekly e-newsletter!