Stillwater's 'Art on Main' Event Starts Friday

“The principle of art is to pause, not bypass,” Novelist Jerzey Kosinski once said. That’s just what this weekend’s Art on Main event in downtown Stillwater is all about—an opportunity to pause, appreciate and purchase works of fine art.

Now in its third year, Art on Main was co-founded by Scott Zahren, owner of Alesci Gallery and Kate Vichich, Gallery Director of Tamarack Gallery.

“Our vision is to showcase Stillwater’s fine-art scene including new and hidden treasures. We want the public to get to know and appreciate the growing art scene in Stillwater with its diverse galleries and recognized artists,” Zahren says.

This weekend’s event features five Stillwater fine art galleries and studios.  On Friday night participating galleries will host their featured artist receptions with an array of wines and appetizers available at each site.

The artists will be on hand to answer questions and talk about their process and the motivation behind their artwork. Whether a first-time buyer or an ardent art devotee, this is an excellent chance to make to an informed decision before purchasing a piece of art.

“There is a real appreciation for art here in the valley,” Vichich says. “This event has become very popular with local art lovers. It’s intimate and it’s great way to enjoy the weekend or date night in Stillwater. We encourage folks to have dinner in a local restaurant.”

Stillwater’s Fine Art Walk is held Friday, June 10, from 4-9pm and Saturday June 11, from 11am to 5pm.

Participating galleries and featured artists include; -Jack Dale, abstract oil painting; -Mandi Siira Wallace, concrete sculpture and mixed media mosaics; -Charlotte Schuld, watercolors, pastels and oils; Studio J Gallery-Mike Johnson, photography; and , Dan Petrov still-life painting. Maps are available at each location.