Sebastian’s Riverview Park was brimming with activity last weekend, as huge crowds of people strolled about and visited with the various artists and craftsmen displaying their outstanding works of art at the 16th annual Sebastian Riverfront Fine Arts and Music Festival.
Event director Lisanne Robinson said she was thrilled with the number of artists participating this year, especially given the storm that wreaked havoc with many of their booths the previous year.
“At least 80 percent of the artists that were here last year returned for the festival,” Robinson said. “Last year’s weather didn’t scare them off.”
More than 130 artists and craftsmen from all over the country were on hand to share their work in mediums ranging from watercolors, oils and acrylics to stained glass, sculpture, jewelry and photography.
The works by stone artist A. Cesar Nogueira were perfect examples of some of the unique artistry offered at the festival. Nogueira takes his cues from Mother Nature to create extraordinary winged sculptures using natural gemstones.
“Each color is a different stone; I don’t use any paint,” Nogueira explained. “Mother Nature gives me the tools, but I have to do the work.”
There was something for seemingly everyone and every pocketbook, whether shoppers were looking for small accent pieces or larger investments.
“I can’t believe how big it’s grown,” said Paulette Vander Wiede, who has attended every festival since its inception. “We come every year and enjoy all of the different types of artwork.”
Taking a break from perusing the varied selections, attendees were lured in by the aroma of the delicious food choices from local vendors and could wash it all down with a beer from the H.A.L.O. tent. And to top it all off, there was continuous live entertainment with bands playing everything from blues and soul to Reggae and folk music. It was truly a day of overload for all five senses.
“It’s a beautiful venue and over the years the show has gained a wonderful positive checkmark from the artists,” said Robinson.
Proceeds from the event help promote the arts and cultural enhancement in Sebastian, with funds used to provide gift certificates for art supplies at Sebastian Elementary Schools, Sebastian Charter Junior High School and four accredited pre-schools.
