B Connected: 14th annual Via Arte set for the Marketplace
By Paola Becerra
The Bakersfield Museum of Art will be presenting the 14th Annual Via Arte on Oct. 13-14 at the Marketplace. The shopping center’s asphalt will once again become a canvas filled with works of art created by many professional artists, amateurs, and children who want to show off their art skills. The public is invited to attend this annual special artwork transformation. This event is for one weekend only, so mark your calendars.
This free event is the largest fundraiser for the museum and all precedes benefit the museums art education programs, benefiting toddlers to high school aged children.
Related Photos
Via ArteCredit: Photo courtesy of Lisa JonesCaption: Graphic illustrator and fine artist Lisa Jones is returning to Bakersfield to participate in this year's Via Arte, this time as the featured artist.
Slug: Via ArteCredit: Photo courtesy of Lisa JonesCaption: Lisa Jones works on a piece with Arizona kachinas.
Alex Horvath / The CalifornianWest High School students Katrina Rocha and Jeni Nusser participate in the high school Via Arte Italian Street Painting Festival on Saturday afternoon.
Jason Gutierrez, marketing director for BMOA, said the annual event continues to grow with artists and spectator participation.
“We have an inspiring group of artists participate each year, include the museum’s staff members that are also artists,” he says. “As we grow each year, we hope to inspired and encourage the community to engage in the museum by visiting the quarterly exhibits, regular workshops or even become a member.”
The event is an opportunity for local residents to meet local artists or for art lovers to see a colorful display of work. In addition, it’s a chance for children to test their artistic skills.
“Last year we doubled the amount of Bambino squares sold, due to high demand,” Gutierrez says. “I’m always fascinated by the professional and high school artists, but there’s nothing more touching than walking through the Bambino area and seeing the excitement of the younger artists creating their masterpieces. It makes me want to buy a square and draw with them.”
The cost for one of these Via Bambino two-by-two foot squares is $15 and it includes chalk.
In addition to the chalk art, the event host’s musical and theatrical performances arranged throughout the weekend. A mixture of blues, rock, jazz and belly dancing.
In addition, the Heart and Stroke Expo from San Joaquin Community Hospital will also be at this event, offering free health screenings. “The hospital has been a long time supporter and friend to the Bakersfield Museum of Art. They are a quality healthcare care provider to the community at large. It’s always a pleasure to share space with them and help spread the important message of proactive healthcare.”
For more information, visit bmoa.org or call the Bakersfield Museum of Art at 323-7219.
