Calling All Artists: Wickford Art Festival Accepting Applications

Artists hoping to showcase their work at the 53rd Wickford Art Festival — one of New England’s busiest and best summer art festivals — are invited to apply soon for a spot at the two-day event held every July in Wickford Village.

Applications must be postmarked by April 1 to be considered by a jury and the application period begins Feb. 1, according to the Wickford Art Association, which hosts the event.

Upwards of 250 artists from around the country display their fine art in the quaint colonial village setting of North Kingstown’s Wickford village.

This year’s festival will be held on July 11 and 12 and applications are available at www.wickfordart.org.

The Wickford Art Association hopes to attract top artists with the allure of no sales tax on fine art in Rhode Island and the fact that artists will keep 100 percent of their sales.

About 75,000 visitors are expected to attend the festival.

The festival is one of the longest running outdoor fine arts festivals in New England and as an artist, getting acceptance is considered a prestigious distinction. No crafts of functional art is accepted.

In addition to the free admission, stunning artwork and chance to meet artists from around the country, visitors can take the opportunity to stroll through Wickford village and shop at some from the eclectic small business community.

The festival cumulates with the Annual Scholarship Raffle of Fine Art held on Sunday afternoon. Festival and raffle proceeds benefit the WAA Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to Rhode Island public high school seniors attending an art college as well as WAA programs and services including art exhibits, classes, poetry readings, a Photo Arts Group, open studios, business gatherings, community events and more throughout the year.

Photos Courtesy: Wickford Art Association