PRINTArt in the ’hood
Columbia’s North Village hosts first-time artists’ market
KEVIN A. ROBERTS
Columbia artist Larry L’Hote reshapes a piece of coat hanger for his latest sculpture. L’Hote collects items that have been thrown away around town. He might not have an exact plan for his findings but knows they could be incorporated into his future artwork.
April 30, 2009 | 12:00 a.m. CST
Larry L’Hote digs through Dumpsters and looks for that perfect piece of scrap metal to add to his collection. Back at his studio, he throws the metal alongside some hangers he found at a recent garage sale. He ponders ways in which he can use his new treasures until an idea comes to him. L’Hote makes metal and wood sculptures in the most environmentally friendly way, with scraps that people around Columbia discard. His work will be shown at the North Village Artists Market on May 9 along with the work of about 22 other local artists.
The North Village Artists Market will bring out local artistic talents and place them directly on the streets of Columbia. With booths lining Orr Street and set up in the studio, the event will guarantee that these artists do not remain unknown.
What: North Village Artists Market
When: May 9, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Orr Street, Orr Street Studios and Orr Street Arts Warehouse
Cost: Free
“This whole area is fairly new down here, and we really wanted to emphasize the area and the arts in the community,” says Kate Gunn, manager and curator of Sven’s Kafe and Gallery. With artists displaying everything from jewelry to pottery, local band performances and children’s activities, Gunn hopes the variety of entertainment will increase the turnout.
“Usually it takes awhile for shows to get new momentum going, but I think this area over here is dedicated to the arts,” says Lisa Bartlett, jewelry maker and owner of Spare Parts Studio, of the first-time event. Bartlett also plans on selling small collages designed on wood panels and looks forward to interacting with both the community and other artists. She refers to the North Village, the area around Orr Street, as the best kept secret in Columbia.
Although these artists hope to turn some form of a profit at the event, that is not their only motive. “I really love being a part of the community, and I love to support it,” designer Sharon Kilfoyle says. “I teach abroad, but I like being home and supporting Columbia and other artists.” Kilfoyle makes silk garments and accessories, which will also be on display at the event. Members of the city’s art scene just want to build a strong community.
“I appreciate being a part of events like this because you’re around people who love to do art,” painter Jessie Starbuck says. These artists welcome anyone who is the least bit interested in learning about the arts. Check out what’s good in the neighborhood. One man’s trash could be another man’s treasure.
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