By Laura Bailey
Community members of all ages gathered at the Federal Hill Green on Saturday afternoon to celebrate Bristol’s passion for the arts with the Second Annual Cultural District Festival.
“It’s a great way to bring the community together to celebrate art,” BPRYCS Arts & Culture Supervisor Arianna Therriault said. “We wanted to shine a light on local artists, businesses and eateries. It’s also an opportunity for everyone to visit the museums, historical landmarks, businesses and all that the cultural district has to offer.”
Attendees lounged on sunchairs and blankets listening to the velvety vocals of musician Karina Karina who performed several classic hits, including “Smooth Operator,” “Dreams” and “Killing Me Softly.” Children of all ages had the opportunity to have their faces painted in colorful designs free of charge and play a game of hopscotch.
Left: Children coloring their favorite part of the Monster Mural. Right: Karina Karina performing in the Federal Hill Green gazebo. | Laura Bailey
Local favorite food trucks Dem Boyz Grill & Catering and Greer’s Chicken served savory dishes of chicken, shrimp and fish to eager patrons, with beverage available from craft coffee company Yellow King.
“I just happened to be driving by and I stopped to see what this festival was,” Michael Green said. “I’m glad that I did because this is the best cold brew I’ve ever had.”
One of the highlights of the day was the new Monster Mural unveiled by the Arts & Culture Commission. Standing six feet tall and 15 feet long, the mural depicts an upbeat festival scene filled with music, food and merriment.
“We chose this mural because we all liked the themes in it,” City Arts & Culture Commission member Andrea Adams said, “art, community, music. It’s nice to see so many people adding to it.”
Visitors of all ages lined up along the mural with their favorite color markers to contribute to the community art.
“I’ve been practicing for this at the Adult Coloring Club at the Bristol Public Library,” Victor Gottheimer said. “I picked a blue marker for my part of the mural, and I had fun coloring.”
Left: Victor Gottheimer adding some bright blue to the Monster Mural. Right: A festivalgoer sees her newly-painted face. | Laura Bailey
Left: Children playing a game of hopscotch. Right: Attendees listening to music and soaking in the festival ambiance. | Laura Bailey
Several artisan vendors showcased their works and wares, including the Riverside Avenue business Creative Art Jam Co. The art studio started by Marlo Marrero Fernandez, Irmie Sauntinez and Brenda Ayende are known for their splatter room experience where participants are given a canvas and offered their choice of creative methods to splatter paint.
Sponsored by Downtown Live, Bristol Arts and Culture and Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services, the second annual Cultural District Festival celebrates the Cultural District Designation that Bristol received from the State of Connecticut Office of the Arts in August 2022.
Laura Bailey can be reached at lbailey@bristoledition.org
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