Art festival is a March highlight in Lake Havasu City
The local art guild organizes the show every spring
When in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, snowbirds generally do all the usual tourist activities—from walking across the real London Bridge to shopping at the Sunday morning swap meet. But in early March, the Art at the Lake festival becomes the major tourist attraction. The Havasu Art Guild, a non-profit organization, hosts this three-day art show featuring the work of 60 artists from California, Nevada and Arizona.
“Variety gives the show vibrancy,” said Jennifer Anderson of the guild. “There is really something for everyone.”
Popular show
It is not often that there is a line-up to get into an art show, but this show was different. The show averages an attendance of 750 people a day and is free to the public. Many of the works of art on display and items from the gift shop are available for purchase at very reasonable prices.
For me, the invitation-only opening night was an enjoyable experience, giving the opportunity to view the many fine works of art while sipping wine, sampling hors d’oeuvres and listening to Gary Nelson, an accomplished pianist.
Now into its 34th year, Art at the Lake is held in the local community centre. This annual show features 15 categories, including oil paintings, water media, acrylic, pastels, graphic arts, mixed media/collage, assemblage, ceramics, sculpture, glass work, jewelry (hand crafted), jewelry (creative design), photography, digital fine art, fiber art and best of the show.
Unusual art forms
Does art imitate life or does life imitate art? This art show helped answer that question, with the many different forms of art reflecting life. Some of the unusual art forms included decorated rocks, Indian jewelry, hand-carved burl items, painted wine glasses, fabric containers and digital art.
Artists are allowed six entries in any combination of categories and the artwork is judged by independent experts from Scottsdale. It is possible to meet the artists and purchase their work.
The Art Guild also displays art in galleries at the community centre, the Mojave County Library, the Bill Spresser Gallery and various businesses around town.
