MONTEVALLO TO HOST 13TH ARTWALK ON HALLOWEEN
Montevallo will host the next Artwalk this Saturday, October 31 from 2 to 6 p.m. The affordable art show is being held a little earlier in the day to offer families the opportunity to join for fun and shopping in the afternoon, but still have time for traditional Halloween fun after this event. Artwalk is a collaborative effort between the University of Montevallo, the City of Montevallo and the Montevallo Arts Council. To date, approximately 70 artists and vendors are registered to participate.
In addition to being a lively street party, Montevallo Artwalk is an initiative to support downtown businesses and draw the university into the community while highlighting both the local and university eclectic art communities. Artists will set up booths along Main Street and the University Promenade to display and sell their work. Unique artwork and fine crafts will be priced to sell to start your Christmas shopping by supporting local. Selected artists will demonstrate their talent throughout the afternoon/evening including chainsaw artist, Bobby “Bear” Jones, UM Professor Collin Williams and demonstration by the Shelby County College and Career Center.
Live music also adds to the atmosphere including performances by Wanda Wesolowski, Drew Granthum, Matt Suddarth, and Man of Willow and the Tribe. Entertainment will also include fire dancing by Andrea Dillingham of the Freakettes. Another feature of Art Stalk is the opportunity to learn more about local radio station, APH.
The “ART STALK” is the Halloween-themed Artwalk. All those in attendance are encouraged to dress up for the event. A costume contest will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Preference will be given to originality and self-created costumes. Adult prizes include gift certificates to be spent at an artist’s booth at Artwalk. Children’s prizes will consist of area gift certificates and Artwalk gift certificates. Other activities for children include Rangaroos, face painting, and a pumpkin decoration booth will be on hand to add to the fun for kids (and kids at heart.)
Additionally, artists and vendors are encouraged to include Halloween-inspired artwork and provide candy for guests. Wrapping up the evening, the UM student newspaper, The Alabamian will host a campus ghost walk from 6 to 8 p.m. and the Montevallo Main Street Players will present "War of the Worlds" at 7 p.m. Another option for the evening is Horrorr Park from 7 to 10 p.m. in Orr Park.
At the four-year anniversary, the Montevallo Artwalk Posse hopes that this event will continue to attract both community members and out-of-town visitors to the historic downtown area. Poster design for this event by local artist and UM alumna, Melanie Poole.