Imagine a space where the worlds of literature and visual arts collide in a symphony of colors, shapes, and narratives. This April, the quaint town of Viroqua becomes that very space, hosting the much-anticipated Ridges & Rivers Book Festival. An event that not only celebrates the written word but also extends an inviting hand towards the visual arts, aiming to bridge the gap between these two expressive realms. As the festival makes its grand return on April 26-27, it introduces an art show and contest that promises to be a highlight for artists and book lovers alike.
The Call to Artists: A Blend of Imagination and Media
Maggie Strittmater, a key figure on the planning committee, captures the essence of this initiative, stating the festival’s desire to celebrate the deep-seated synergy between literary and visual arts. Artists are encouraged to submit original artworks that reflect or are linked to books and writing, with no restrictions on the medium. Whether it’s a 2-D painting, a sculptural piece, or an innovative 3-D installation, the festival is open to all forms of artistic expression. This inclusive approach not only widens the scope for creativity but also highlights the festival’s commitment to exploring the multifaceted relationship between different art forms.
A Stage for Creativity: Juried and Non-Judged Shows
Divided into two distinct categories, the art show offers a platform for both professional and aspiring artists to showcase their talent. The juried section, aimed at those seeking recognition in their field, promises to be a competitive arena where artworks are evaluated on various criteria. On the other hand, the non-judged section provides a more relaxed environment, welcoming any artist willing to share their work with the public. This dual approach ensures that the festival caters to a wide range of participants, from seasoned artists to those taking their first steps into the world of visual arts. Themes such as illustrating book characters, creating sculptures from books, or depicting the intimate act of reading are just a few avenues artists can explore in their submissions.
How to Participate: The Path to Exhibition
For artists intrigued by the prospect of having their work featured at the festival, the process begins with an entry form and the submission of photos of their artwork by April 1. This deadline ensures that the planning committee has ample time to review all submissions and organize them into the festival’s comprehensive art show. Interested participants can find more details and the necessary submission guidelines on the festival’s official website, a resource designed to assist artists in navigating the submission process seamlessly.
The Ridges & Rivers Book Festival stands as a testament to the enduring connection between visual arts and literature, celebrating not just the beauty of the written word but also the profound impact of visual storytelling. Through this innovative art show and contest, Viroqua not only enriches its cultural landscape but also offers artists and writers a unique platform to explore and express the intricate dance between word and image. As April approaches, the anticipation builds for an event that promises to weave together the diverse threads of creativity, community, and celebration into a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression.