Annual art show relocates to Ritzville City Park

Community members are invited to enjoy a weekend filled with unique artwork and creativity from local and out-of-town artists at the Ritzville City Park May 26 to May 28.

The downtown art show has relocated to the Ritzville City Park and is now called “Art in the Park”. The event is sponsored by the Boots N’ Brushes and the Western Artists Association.

Residents are reminded a portion of Columbia Street will be closed for the duration of the event.

The three-day event will take place over Memorial Day weekend, beginning on Friday, May 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Saturday, the show will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 5 p.m., and will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of artwork including Western paintings, wood art, metal art, jewelry, handmade decor, horseshoe art and visual effects.

Western Artists Association member Jim Lisk said they decided to relocate the event to the park in order to be more family friendly and provide additional space for the artists.

They also decided to change the name of the event to “Art in the Park” to better relate the event to the City of Ritzville and attract visitors, he explained.

The name has been used in surrounding cities to attract visitors and the event has been well attended throughout the country, he explained.

Lisk said the change of the name has brought additional artists to the event, and they are excited to have a variety of artwork on display.

Along with canvas art, Dave Englehart and John Cook will be bringing their 46 Ford Pickup Street Rods, which have been painted by artists.

Lisk said the Association hopes to show people art is not always on a canvas by bringing in the painted automobiles.

The event will feature several local artists’ work including Jim and Cheri Lisk with watercolors and photos, and Mike Kuest with metal craft art.

Gabe Gabel and her daughter “T” Kurtz will also be presenting their work at the show. Gabel and Kurtz are long-time veterans of Ritzville art shows, and delight participants with unique bronze art and colorful paintings.

Lisk said the association decided to not include food vendors at the event to encourage those attending to support local businesses. There will be kettle corn offered at the event to provide attendees with a snack while they browse around the park and enjoy a variety of art.

In addition to the event, there will be an Artist’s Reception on Friday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ritzville Eagles Lodge.

The awards ceremony will take place on Sunday at 10 a.m. and nine awards will be distributed.