The Pennsylvania Wilds is a two million-acre tract of public land spanning twelve counties Within the Pennsylvania Wilds lies Kane, PA, which will host a juried art show June 22-23. The 7th Annual Art in the Wilds Festival will sweep Kane’s Evergreen Park, featuring over 40 artists whose crafts include metalwork, leather, woodwork, painting, clay, and photography, to name a few. A little over an hour’s travel time from Ellicottville, the drive down Route 219 through the Enchanted Mountains and the Allegheny National Forest Region alone would justify the trip.
AN ARTIST RETURNS HOME
Dianna Soisson of Saline, Michigan has participated in the event since its debut six years ago. A Kane native, she says Art in the Wilds is “one of the most heartfelt shows I’ve ever entered.” The artist works in colored pencils and called the experience of bringing what she has learned in the Ann Arbor area back to where her career started “a dream come true”. The volunteer staff’s support and advertising, according to Soisson, help draw a lot of customers to the area, making the event a favorite among artists.
Soisson will join over 40 other artists, including 11 new individuals, who will make the trek from as far away as New Jersey, Florida, and Arizona. Last year, over 5,200 people attended, according to Show Committee President Marilyn Blackmore, with each year drawing a larger following. Displayed art will be for sale.
EVENT DETAILS
Admission to Art in the Wilds is free, as is nearby parking. Food and drink vendors will abound aplenty, along with places to rest. The volunteer staff numbers fifteen, and artist and patron satisfaction is their top priority. Deborah Moyer, a returning jewelry maker commented, “Volunteers are outstanding. It’s not often that artisans are treated so well by show organizers. I’m looking forward to this year’s event! Art in the Wilds is one of the best shows I do!”
Attendees should be sure to catch demonstrations in the park’s gazebo on Sunday, including the letterpress, copper wall hanging and a third craft to be determined. Running from 10am-5pm both Saturday and Sunday, Art in the Wilds is sure to please.
Festival attendees who plan to spend the night in local lodging should book quickly, as Art in the Wilds coincides with the Kane High School Alumni Weekend. An event breakfast will take place both Saturday and Sunday at the Kane Elks Club for a small fee.
Evergreen Park is located on Route 66 (S. Fraley Street) between Chestnut and Birch. Handicapped parking and an ATM are both available on Birch. More information on this year’s Art in the Wilds can be obtained from www.artinthewilds.org.
