Garden of Artistry show coming July 22-24

By Reader Staff

The Garden of Artistry Fine Art Show opens for its fifth year July 22, 23 and 24 at the Ponderay Garden Center. In the last four years the show has gained a reputation for exceptional art and artists. Most of the 40 artists exhibiting are professionals with national reputations in their media.

As in years before, several emerging artists have been invited—those whose careers are just getting started. One of the original goals of the show has been to encourage newer artists, giving them a chance to interact with long time professionals and benefit from their years of experience. Visitors to the show will find the artists willing to share their knowledge both about their mediums and marketing art. Many of the artists also offer workshops on a yearly schedule.

Visitors will find painters, photographers, jewelers and sculptors. They will be able to meet the artist in person and learn about the art and the person behind each creation. For many it is a second career as they made the gamble to develop the talent that could no longer be denied. Many artists got their motivation to move forward by talking with the exhibitors they met at shows like this.

Many of these artists live in our region. Our area has long attracted artists—some may be your neighbors. Our community has a history of supporting the arts—not only is the Garden of Artistry presented by the Ponderay Garden Center, but many local businesses have contributed. The first 100 families will receive a gift tote bag that contains materials from these businesses. The artists wish to thank: Route 66, the Blue Heron Cafe and Samuels Store, ASAP Tax and Accounting, Pierce Auto Sales, The Co-Op Country Store, the Bonner County Daily Bee, Steve’s Import Auto, Connie’s Cafe and Lake RV for being our sponsors this year.

The Ponderay Garden Center is located just north of Walmart and North 40 on Highway 95. The hours are Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. with an Opening Reception from 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendance and parking are both free.