When people discuss the centers of America’s art industry, places like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago typically get brought up. While these major cities certainly have incredible art scenes, great art can also be found outside major cities. Fairhope, Alabama, stands as a great example of this. Fairhope is a small city located on Mobile Bay, just across the water from Mobile. It is the site of the Eastern Shore Art Center, which plays host to the ESAC Outdoor Art Show, a massive event that draws in art enthusiasts from across the Gulf Coast and country.
The Outdoor Art Show is a huge showcase located on the grounds of the Eastern Shore Art Center that has attracted highly-regarded international and regional artists throughout its 47 years of existence. The 2022 showcase is set to be a spectacular event that will draw in thousands of visitors to Fairhope and the Gulf Coast.
The Outdoor Art Show will take place from March 18th-20th, from 10 am to 5 pm each day. It is a lively event that attracts thousands of tourists to take to the streets of Fairhope to browse some incredible works from rising and established artists. Admission is completely free, but there may be artwork you want to buy, so bring your wallet.
The Outdoor Art Show is a juried event that is application-based, so only the best artwork will be on display for this event. Artists will be competing in several different categories to try and earn the approval of judges, attendees, and art dealers and collectors. The categories cover various arts and crafts, from ceramics, painting, and fine crafts, to mixed media, photography, and sculpture. There will be something at this event for art lovers of any taste.
There is more to the Outdoor Art Show than just art, though. While art is the primary focus of the event, if you are just looking to enjoy a fun, lively atmosphere, the show is the place to be. Live music, big crowds, and even live art demos make for quality entertainment. The show’s location also makes it perfect for grabbing food and strolling around browsing the various displays.
The artists at this event will have the chance to win some incredible prizes. Over $10,000 in prizes were awarded to artists last year, and there could be even more coming this year. Beyond that, artists get to access a large pool of interested art enthusiasts, so it is a big day for sales. If you’ve been looking for that new art piece to pull together your living or dining room, browsing from some of the innovative creators at this event may help you find what you’re looking for.
The Outdoor Art Show is a great way to spend a day outdoors with family. With tons of entertainment, a lively atmosphere, and displays of extreme talent and artistic creation, there’s something for everyone.
The ESAC Outdoor Art show isn’t the only option in the area for those who want to explore some incredible art in the area. Other nearby galleries present year-round options for art lovers. Let’s explore two galleries only a short drive from Fairhope and the ESAC Outdoor Art Show.
Mobile Museum of Art:
The Mobile Museum of Art, or MMOFA, is situated just across the water from Fairhope. It is a lovely museum home to various incredible art pieces. The museum has a permanent collection of nearly 6,400 fine and decorative artworks. It has pieces from around the world that span centuries, ranging from classical antiquities to modern creations. There is a lot to enjoy at the MMOFA, with wide-ranging curated exhibitions and numerous classes, programs, and guided tours. It is one of the premier art institutions in Alabama.
Pensacola Museum of Art:
Pensacola might not be located in Alabama, but it is only an hour’s drive away from Fairhope, so it can easily be accessed. The Pensacola Museum of Art is the only art museum in town, and it is a small but eminently pleasant destination. The Pensacola Museum of Art has a growing collection of art dating back to the 19th century and a lot of modern creations. There are numerous displays and exhibits at the museum that make it worth repeat visits, and it is one of the highlights of the Gulf Coast art scene.
