Artists on the Bluff: A Celebration of Local Art

Amid the widespread appeal of mass-market art fairs, a special event stands out for its focus on local creativity. The Artists on the Bluff Summer Arts Festival, a longstanding tradition in Lake Bluff, took place on the Village Green. This event, now in its 26th year, continues to honor its original mission of showcasing local art.

During the festival, young artists like Remy Dobbins, aged 4, Olivia Evans, aged 5, and Reese Hrusovsky, aged 3, engaged in creating original Father’s Day cards. The festival is not just a place for art display but also a hub for community engagement and creativity for all ages.

Festival director Alison Tompkins highlighted this year’s intimate and juried show, featuring 29 accomplished artists from nearby areas, many residing within 100 miles of the festival. Attending the event, which ran for free from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. over the weekend, guests enjoyed fine art presentations, live music, food from local vendors, and art activities tailored for children.

Tompkins emphasized the importance of community involvement in local artistry. She stated, “It’s crucial for our Lake Bluff community to engage with local creators, and for artists to connect with this audience.” The festival displayed diverse art forms, including watercolor, acrylics, oils, pen and ink, pastels, sculptures, photography, pottery, collage, woodwork, mixed media, and jewelry, reflecting both traditional and contemporary styles.

Among the participating artists was Christiane Bouret from Skokie. Reflecting on the event, she noted, “The Artists on the Bluff show is less commercial than many art fairs around. Artists here have the liberty to follow their artistic vision, rather than focusing on commercial viability.” Another participant, pencil artist Phil Schorn, described the festival as a “hidden gem,” praising the quality and diversity of talent present.

For visitors like Matt and Katie Frekko from Lake Forest, the festival was a social highlight. Matt remarked, “The show feels quaint and intimate, offering a collection of contemporary artworks that’s engaging without being overwhelming.” Longtime attendee Annette Dezelen reflected on the festival’s personal significance, saying, “Experiencing local artists’ work, often from neighbors and friends, always leads to discovering unique treasures.”

Gina Grillo, a freelancer for Pioneer Press, covered this engaging community event.