I've been thinking a lot about downtown Ukiah’s First Friday Art Walk lately and how it sometimes feels like the business community is trying to take over the event for their interests. For over a decade, I have actively participated in the art walk. I've contributed as an exhibiting artist, showing my work at participating venues, attended as a patron of the arts, and hosted monthly art shows at the MEDIUM Art Gallery, which I co-founded in 2021 with my two friends, Lillian and Meredith.
I heard the people that are pushing the Artwalks this year meet at Black Oak Coffee on the Tuesday following the artwalk, at 8 am. I am sure they would love all the help they can get. It’s open to the public.
Agreed. The Art Walk has always been disorganized. I believe our downtown businesses are crucial as collaborators but they should be sponsoring the effort and featuring local artists in their storefront. Otherwise, it’s just The Chamber of Commerce/Visit Ukiah capitalizing off the event. Obviously, having your business open during those hours is smart but to be involved in the “Art Walk” you should be exhibiting local artists and musicians.
I heard the people that are pushing the Artwalks this year meet at Black Oak Coffee on the Tuesday following the artwalk, at 8 am. I am sure they would love all the help they can get. It’s open to the public.
Agreed. The Art Walk has always been disorganized. I believe our downtown businesses are crucial as collaborators but they should be sponsoring the effort and featuring local artists in their storefront. Otherwise, it’s just The Chamber of Commerce/Visit Ukiah capitalizing off the event. Obviously, having your business open during those hours is smart but to be involved in the “Art Walk” you should be exhibiting local artists and musicians.