Islamorada Art Festival at Island Fest
Founders Park, Islamorada
April 10-11, 2010 — 10am to 5pm

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ISLAND FEST BOAST FINEST ART SHOW IN THE KEYS

This is NOT your typical art festival! The 19th Annual Florida Keys Island Fest, being held Saturday and Sunday, April 10 & 11, features the original, never before seen works of artists from all across the country. Join us in Founders Park from 10 am to 5 pm for an art experience unlike any other!

Hundreds of artists submitted their work in hopes of displaying at this year’s fest, and only the very best of the best were selected for the coveted spots at Island Fest. Art enthusiasts will be amazed at the variety of one-of-a-kind works that this event has to offer. Enjoy over 100 exceptional exhibits, and join the excitement of seeing which artist is presented with the awards for “Best of Show” and “Most Creative Craft.”

“What sets this event aside from other art festivals is the quality of the art,” says Judy Hull, Executive Director for the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. “Not just anyone who applies is chosen to participate in this show. It is a juried, fine art affair featuring only the top artists and crafters.”

One such artist is local John David Hawver, this year’s designer of the 5th Annual Islamorada festival poster. Hawver’s paintings are known for being dramatic and colorful, his own “personal poetic visions,” inspired by the natural environment and devoid of man-made objects and clutter. His work can be seen in museum and galleries throughout the South, in many public and corporate collections, as well as in private collections across the U.S. and Europe. Hawver has his own working gallery inside the Rain Barrel at mm 87 in Islamorada. Hawver enjoys participating in fine art festivals like Island Fest saying, “It’s rewarding meeting people and actually seeing their reaction to my work.” Stop by booth number one, meet John David Hawver in person, and have him sign your Island Fest poster featuring our very own Anne’s Beach. View Hawver’s work and learn more about him by visiting www.johndavidhawver.com.

Island Fest is also proud to welcome watercolorist Carol Garvin. Carol’s paintings have been described as “mini-vacations where you can escape, relax and dream.” Her work can be seen at the Cayman Islands National Museum, the State Department in Washington, D.C. and in various galleries throughout the tropics. Portions of Carol’s proceeds are donated to both environmental and animal rights organizations. You can learn more about Carol and her art at www.carolgarvin.com.

Also new to Island Fest is glass designer Tom Decker. Inspired by the tropical foliage and pristine waters of the Florida Keys, Tom’s fused, stained or beveled glass creations are made from the highest quality materials and with the most precise, professional craftsmanship. He specializes in custom pieces for homeowners, architects and designers, and now he’s sharing his one-of-a-kind glass art pieces at this year’s festival. “The work is really Key-centric,” says business partner Don Stuart. “The Florida Keys provide the perfect backdrop and inspiration for these creations.” Check out www.dragonfly-artworks.com for additional information on Tom Decker and his artwork.

In addition to fine arts and crafts, the 19th Annual Florida Keys Island Fest also features live musical entertainment, mouth-watering delicacies and children’s activities. It truly is an event for the whole family! Plan to spend the weekend of April 10 & 11 at Founders Park and you’ll be glad you did. Show times are from 10 am to 5 pm daily and admission is free. Call the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305.664.4503 or visit www.islamoradachamber.com for more information. See you at the fest!

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