The Grayson County Alliance (GCA) Art in the Park, Fine Arts and Fine Crafts Show is right around the corner.
On Saturday, May 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., GCA Art in the Park returns for its twelfth year among the trees at James D. Beville Park adjacent to the Veterans Memorial Park, and will showcase a talented group of local and regional fine artists and fine crafts people.
“Visitors will have a fun-filled, family-friendly day offering free parking, free admission, free music, and free children’s activities,” GCA Executive Director Debbie Childress. “You can tap your toe to the music on stage as we showcase local performing artists, all the while enjoying a tasty treat from one of the food vendors. Children and adults will have a wonderful time watching demonstrations and can join in the fun with several hands-on art activities.”
“Creating an event that keeps the entire family in mind has been a priority our volunteer planning team. We have worked hard to make it an experience for everyone in our community regardless of age,” Childress added.
This year there will be 27 artists and craftsmen on Vendor’s Row.
“Everyone is sure to be inspired and find one of a kind piece to take home,” Childress exclaimed.
This year’s show will include newcomer, Thomas Hann, a 21-year-old college student from Paducah. In high school, Hann won the National Junior Duck Stamp Competition for Kentucky with his “Canadian Goose,” which was on display at the Smithsonian Institution for a year.
“There are seasoned and award-winning artists like Paula Haynes and Jackie Pierce, who will showcase their unique styles. Internationally renowned artist Larry Elmore will make an appearance again this year,” Childress said. “Larry has been masterfully creating fantasy and science fiction for over 40 years. Larry has a big heart for his community and even though he cannot stay all day he plans to make an early appearance.”
Copies of Larry’s inaugural poster for Art in the Park will be on sale at the event.
Special Features
High School Student Art Competition 2025
Bev Dowell, Grayson County High School Art teacher, will coordinate the student competition (sponsored by Grayson County Schools). The High School Art Competition will exhibit art from extraordinarily talented students in Grayson County.
Students can exhibit in several categories including jewelry, textiles, painting, mixed media, sculpture, drawing, pottery, glass, basketry, photography, and digital art.
Children’s Art Area
Jackie Pierce of Believe Designs is teaching and inspiring children from 4- to 12-years-old with a make and take “Claypot Windchimes” art activity. This fun project will be held in two sessions: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and again at 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The lessons and materials are free, and the sessions are held in the Children’s Art Pavilion (sponsored by Grayson County Schools).
Tiny Art Show — Exhibit & GCA Fundraiser
The theme for the 5th year of the Tiny Art Show, “Food,” is sure to bring some fun and interesting amateur and professional pieces that will be sold to benefit the GCA Food Pantry.
Each entry in the Tiny Art Show will be on exhibition beginning at 9:00 a.m. and will go on sale at 10:00 a.m. for $10 each.
The GCA Food Pantry is a 501c3 non-profit serving local families with basic food support for 25 years.
“GCA depends on the support of our community. We would simply not be able to help hundreds of our friends and neighbors struggling to have enough to eat each month without that support,” Childress said. “The Tiny Art Show and the generosity of our sponsors make the festival a success in the fight against hunger.”
On Stage
All day long, the park will be filled with the wonderful sound of talented musicians and vocalists. Several of the acts are local or regional talents. Les N. Downs, who manages the music at Art in the Park, will take the stage along with Daniel Walker, Dalsin Stevenson and Patrick Lampton.
“The stage will be a great place to relax and enjoy food from the food trucks,” Childress said
NOTE: If bad weather is an issue, the event will move to Grayson County Middle School.
Contact Debbie Childress 270-259-4000 gcaartinthepark@gmail.com follow GCA Art in the Park on social media for details on artists and craftsmen.
Website: gcaartinthepark.org Facebook: gcaartinthepark Instagram: gcaartinthepark.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
