Conway ArtsFest activities planned

The Conway Alliance for the Arts (CAFTA) will hold Conway ArtsFest virtually through Saturday, Oct. 3. 

The theme is “We Create Conway” and though hosting an in-person event for 1,000-plus people isn’t possible in 2020, CAFTA is dedicated to providing a free, quality arts experience to highlight local artists and celebrate the collective power of the arts. 

ArtsFest videos and activities will be accessible through conwayarts.org. Every day through Oct. 3 video content will be released on the website, including daily do-along children’s art projects created by art education students from the University of Central Arkansas Department of Art and Design. Videos and project examples from Conway Public Schools music and art programs will be shared throughout the week.

The following events will be livestreamed:

Students Create Conway – 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1; hosted by Students for the Arts, a registered student organization at the University of Central Arkansas. 

The event will feature a hands-on printmaking activity and a virtual art exhibit featuring work by college students.

ArtsFest Live – 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3. ArtsFest Live will feature a variety of guests from the local arts community who will lead activities and perform. Confirmed acts and contributors include the Lantern Theatre, Red Curtain Theatre, artist Jessica Jones, and Lady J and the Trebled Souls. 

Black Artists Showcase – 7 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3. The Showcase is the grand finale to the 2020 Conway ArtsFest. Local Black performing and visual artists chosen from submissions will be featured. Local performing artist Mary Rowe, the Afroshoujo, will headline this event.

Other confirmed contributors throughout the week include the Faulkner County Library; Hendrix Theatre Arts and Dance; University of Central Arkansas Department of Film, Theatre and Creative Writing; ceramicist Chris Swasta of Little Rock; and the CitiZine Project. 

The Conway area community has many opportunities to be involved with ArtsFest. Visit conwayarts.org for a full schedule and more information.

ArtsFest sponsors include theConway Kiwanis Club, Silverlake Design Studio, the Arkansas Community Foundation and Engage Management.