ArtsFest set to go on May 2

Families are invited to attend the 13th annual Madera County ArtsFest on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This free community event celebrates art and creativity in Madera County with a fun carnival-like atmosphere.

ArtsFest is hosted by the Madera County Schools Foundation and the Madera County Superintendent of Schools. It takes place at the office of the Madera County Superintendent of Schools.

Children and families will enjoy a variety of free hands-on art activities including decorating flowerpots and paper bags, drawing on tambourines and necklaces, creating swirling pool paintings and making chalk art.

Families are also encouraged to work together to create Play Dough.

“This is such a special event for our community,” said Tricia Protzman, Madera County Superintendent of Schools.

“We’re proud to offer free hands-on art experiences that bring families together and make the arts accessible to everyone. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the arts and discover simple ways to keep that inspiration going at home.”

ArtsFest will feature live art demonstrations and an outdoor performance stage. Liberty Charter School’s mariachi band will kick off the event with a performance at 10 a.m.

Free snow cones and popcorn will be provided for attendees.

The event will be held in conjunction with a student art gallery showcasing outstanding work from across the county. This year 429 students from 37 schools participated in the spring art contest.

Artwork from students in transitional kindergarten through high school will be on display.

“The student art gallery is truly the heart of ArtsFest,” said Protzman.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase the creativity and talent of our students and to celebrate their hard work with the entire community.”

Students competed in four grade divisions: TK–3rd, 4th– 6th, 7th–8th and 9th–12th grades.

Entries were judged across three categories: two-dimensional art, three-dimensional art and still photography.

Awards will be presented for first, second and third place along with honorable mentions in each division and category. A new People’s Choice Award will also be given in each category. All participating students will receive a certificate of participation.

An awards recognition honoring all student artists will be held in the art gallery, where participants may stop by anytime between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to receive their certificates and any earned awards.

Educational Employees Credit Union and Madera County Compact are sponsors of ArtsFest.

The public is invited to attend the event.

Door prizes consisting of gift certificates, family outings and art kits will be awarded.

Madera County Superintendent of Schools is located at 1105 S. Madera Avenue. For more information please call Kristi Winter at 559-662-3873.