.png){kind=logo}
Autumn in Kansas is beautiful for several reasons, but cool and crisp air and brightly colored leaves aren't the only things to be admired this month. Wichita Festivals' annual event, Autumn and Art, brings the works of nearly 100 artists from all over the country to Wichita, combining the season's natural beauty with the beauty of countless artistic creations in a variety of media.
The juried art show returns to Bradley Fair Parkway from September 16 through the 18 for it's seventh year. This year, 99 qualifying artists will display their work at the event. Competition is stiff when it comes to getting into Autumn and Art, according to Wichita Festivals CEO Mary Beth Jarvis.
In order to participate in the show, artists must complete an application. From there, the work of each artist is evaluated by a of jury of experts who have experience in museums and galleries, and who create art themselves. Each piece is judged on quality and the technique that was involved to make it. Then, a cap of about 100 artists is set, offering invitations to only the entrants receiving the highest marks. Of the artists making the cut this year, one-fourth are local.
"We’ve also got 24 artists from Kansas, whose work made the cut, it was evaluated by the jury to be world-class, so we’ve got lots of local art represented as well," Jarvis said.
The show features paintings, sculptures, photography, glass, jewelry, ceramics and more.
In addition to the art, guests can enjoy local talent in other areas. Autumn and art highlights a variety of live performances, including music, dance and more.
"We bring up representatives from all sorts of performing arts groups around Wichita, from Irish dancing to ballet and opera for little snippets, so it’s kind of the montage of great talent in Wichita strewn among the wonderful visual arts, so I like that combination," Jarvis added.
The event also highlights food and drinks from local restaurants, paddle boat rides and more. Autumn and Art is free to attend and open to the public, so come check it out!
