The 11th Annual Art Affair on the Square lined downtown Urbana for artists to share their works with the community. Monument Square District hosted the event, with activities for all ages. Children could do art activities while families shopped, enjoyed live music on North Main Street, or went on the architectural tour.
Artists from different parts of Ohio sold artwork from paintings, to original literary works, to clothing. Monument Square northward filled with visitors, buyers, and stimulated business not only for artisans, but for local shops and eateries in the square.
This year’s featured artist, Todd Buschur, had a busy tent all day, and spoke with buyers about his art: “Inspiration comes in different ways for me; it is a form of meditation or prayer. I see a certain color or image and feel as if I need to do something with it.” If interested buyers missed the event or want a duplicate of a piece he was selling, they can visit the Hayley Gallery in New Albany, Ohio or search for his work on etsy.com, an online marketplace for independent sellers. Buschur has been selling art since 1991, and sold his first pieces at Teabaggers on North Main Street.
The event served as a marketing tool and a way to get involved in the community. New artists provided their information to interested buyers and were able to make a profit off of their creations. Food vendors set up in the square. “Tonya’s Concessions” was the newest vendor among the crowd.
Tents and booths were open to the public from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. and more than seven different musical groups performed while visitors made their way through the square. Monument Square District, Champaign County Arts Council, other sponsors, volunteers, and artists came together on Saturday for a great turnout. The sunny, warm day was perfect for walking around town and appreciating the arts.