Destin Festival of the Arts keeps it fresh

DESTIN — The embarrassment of festival riches available this time of year might tempt you to think that if you’ve been to one, you’ve been to all.

Not so.

Festival organizers pour countless hours into keeping their events fresh and ever-inviting for new and repeat patrons.

This weekend’s 14th annual Destin Festival of the Arts, presented by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, is a case in point.

“We have 26 new artists exhibiting at the festival for the first time this year,” said Marcia Hull, co-producer of the festival with Deb Nissley.

Of the 150 fine artists competing for $8,200 in awards, there also will be 13 returning award-winning artists. They represent 12 states and 18 media. A community Collaborative Art Exhibit will showcase an eclectic mix of art from local students and adults.

The all-original artwork includes everything from acrylic, oil and watercolor to clay, glass, wood and metal, with jewelry, mosaic, sculpture, collage, pastel, photography, pen-and-ink, digital art, pottery and mixed media inbetween.

The event takes place 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at Henderson Beach State Park on U.S. Highway 98.

Admission is a $3 donation per adult and free to children under 12. Free parking and shuttle service on air-conditioned motor coaches will be available from Emerald Coast Centre, which is just west of Walmart.

Also new this year is a benefit art drawing. Festivalgoers can enter for a chance to win art from 30 of the festival artists as well as other prizes. The drawing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, and you do not have to be present to win. Proceeds support arts and education in schools and the community.

While art is the main attraction, food and music add to the festivities.

The Bistro Food Court will offer seven vendors including new participants Jim N’ Nicks Bar-b-q, 790 on the Gulf, Nuts Over Toffee and Coffee Klatch.

Enjoy live entertainment in the West Pavilion featuring the Guffman Trio, Emerald Gold Band, Mike & Dave Trio, Ed Williams Quintet and Déjà Vu.

Another first for the festival will be the introduction of Scots on the Rock performing Celtic, Scottish and Irish tunes with a rock flair and dressed in traditional kilts.

The Destin Festival of Arts is sponsored by 33 local business partners. For more details, call the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation at 850-650-2226 or visit the Web site online at mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.