Cresco Fine Arts Show, Fly-In Breakfast set for Aug. 3

CRESCO - Longevity may be the key for the Cresco Fine Arts Council, planning their 64th annual show this Sunday, Aug. 3, at Beadle Park.

    One of the longest running outdoor art shows in the state, the Cresco Fine Arts Show will offer free admission to view local art put together by talents of all ages, plus live music, food vendors and activities for children according to 10-year chairman Loraine Hubka. The family-oriented show operates from 9:30 a.m. through 3:30 p.m.

    She expects about 20 artists to show for the event, coming from the Twin Cities and southeast Minnesota to northeast Iowa as well as southern Iowa, who will be showcasing and selling their unique artwork.

    The show will also include children’s activities, artist demonstrations, wine tasting, local school artists and an opportunity to win $20 in “Creative Cash,” to be used toward an art purchase of the winner’s choice. Children’s activities include painting, rock painting and face painting. 

  A guest musician from Decorah, singer/guitarist Michelle Placek, will be performing from 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

    Awards will be presented to top adult and student artists along with the presentation of a “People’s Choice” award, with a judges forum set for 1:30 p.m. New this year is a drawing for “best art of the hour,” a contest for youths that will take place beginning at 11 a.m. for four hours until 3 p.m.

    Best of Show along with first, second, third and honorable mention cash prizes range from $500 to $100 for adult artwork while students are awarded $50 to $20 prizes for four placings. 

    Formed in June 1962, the “cultural committee” of the Cresco Chamber of Commerce organized the inaugural art show on the first weekend of June on the lawn of the Howard County Courthouse, the brainchild of chairman George R. Laub.