Friday is the deadline for artists to apply to be part off the last Alley Art Festival in downtown Aurora.
The festival will celebrate its 16th and final year from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, at Water Street Mall and Downer Place between Stolp Avenue and Water Street.
The free arts festival will bring nearly 100 local artists to downtown Aurora, organizers said in a press release.
The annual festival will highlight locally made art, jewelry, pottery, handmade goods and more, according to organizers.
Established in 2010 by Marissa Amoni, Jenn Byrne, Lisa Gloria and Nate Miller, the festival focuses on showcasing only local artists living within 30 miles of Aurora, the release said.
“I’m proud of the role it has played in boosting the arts community and downtown development over the years. It’s been a big, beautiful day,” said Marissa Amoni, event director, in the release.
“It feels like the time is right for something else to grow in its place. Although Alley Art Fest as an annual outdoor event is ending, Alley Art Festival will continue as my business – promoting the arts, offering classes, and more,” Amoni said in the release.
She added that Alley Art Festival recently hosted a collage card-making class at Yellow Bird Books in downtown Aurora and took part in a recent First Fridays event at Santori Public Library in Aurora by hosting a hands-on art activity.
“By scaling back and offering more intimate community art opportunities and connections, Alley Art Festival can hopefully be more impactful on a personal level with community members,” Amoni said.
For more information on the festival or to apply to be part of the event, go to alleyartaurora.com.
