30 Aug 2024
When: September 14, 2024 at 11 - 4 p.m.
Location: 100 Joseph Street Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0
Website: Facebook
"Art in the Yard" is an annual show and sale that started four years ago, driven by the passion of its organizer, Brenda Barclay-Smith, and her husband, who both love attending art shows and studio tours. Brenda was motivated to create a diverse art event, offering more than just painted canvases. As she puts it, "I love diversity. Even though I am a painter, I get quite bored when I go to an event and it's just painters."
From the beginning, Brenda reached out to artists she admired, inviting them to showcase a variety of mediums. Today, "Art in the Yard" features an eclectic mix of talents, including painters working with alcohol ink, acrylic, and watercolor; a woodworker creating fantastic furniture and smaller items; a fiber artist who paints with fabric; a photographer, a fabric sculptor, and a jeweler. While the event will miss its mosaic glass artist this year due to personal reasons and the loss of a metalworker, the spirit of variety remains strong.
Brenda emphasizes that "Art in the Yard" is not backed by sponsors—she organizes and funds it herself. The minimal vendor fee she charges goes to support the event's musician, Rob Barclay, a well-known saxophone player in Kemptville. "I do it for the love of art!" Brenda proudly shares.
The unique setting of Kemptville Creek and its surrounding garden adds a special ambiance to the event. Paddlers and kayakers often pause to listen to the music, creating a magical atmosphere. "When the weather, music, and art come together, it truly is a magical experience," Brenda describes.
The selection process for the event is highly curated. "I’m my own jury," Brenda says. "Everyone in the show was chosen by me based on their skill and the uniqueness of their medium." This careful curation ensures a high standard of quality and variety.
In addition to browsing and purchasing artwork, attendees have the opportunity to interact with the artists and even participate in workshops. Rob Barclay's smooth saxophone performance is a highlight, well-known to locals and a big draw for repeat visitors. "If you're not interested in exploring art, you're welcome to just sit and enjoy the music," Brenda adds.
Practical considerations for attendees include ample parking and multiple payment options, including credit, debit, cash, and e-transfer. The venue is also accessible for people with disabilities, with flat surfaces and assistance available if needed.
"Art in the Yard" plays a significant role in supporting local artists and enriching the community by providing a platform for public display of their work. While half of the participants are members of the North Grenville Art Guild, the event is open to all who meet Brenda's selection criteria. The guild itself offers further opportunities for artists, with an affordable membership fee of around $30 per year.
Promotion for "Art in the Yard" heavily relies on social media, with posts increasing closer to the event date. Printed media like posters and signs are also used but are less visible compared to the reach of social media. Sharing posts on platforms like Facebook helps spread awareness and is encouraged, especially for those unable to attend.
Looking to the future, Brenda remains flexible, taking each year as it comes. "Not everyone realizes how much work goes into organizing an event like this. I’m fortunate to have my husband’s support," she says.
