What began as a sidewalk arts and crafts festival has matured into a significant juried event that draws artist applicants from across the country with its promise of cash, critical acclaim and artistic credibility. The 33rd Annual Mainsail Arts Festival features more than 250 artists vying for the chance to take home some of the $50,000 in prize money and, at best, the $10,000 "Best of Show" award. The exposure to potential clients — from art-loving audiences to corporate sponsors — doesn't hurt, either, and even those artists who don't win any awards enjoy numerous opportunities to sell or commission works. Ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, oils and acrylics, photography, sculpture, watercolor and wood are among the represented media; other enticements include a "Young at Art" student show with awards, a children's art tent, a food court, art demos, strolling entertainers and live music throughout. April 19-20, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Vinoy Park, Bayshore Drive and Seventh Avenue N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-892-5885, free admission, mainsailartsfestival.org.
This article appears in Apr 16-22, 2008.