COMMUNITY NEWS The 2nd Annual Banfield Art Crawl!

Art, arty events and artistic displays are some of the brightest jewels in Paris’ crown and without a doubt are an important part of the fabric that create this town’s identity.

Last weekend the 2nd annual Banfield Art Crawl brought local artists together to show off their range, mediums and skill with accessible aplomb This year’s event had twenty different spots on the crawl map and thirty-eight artists participating in tents, on lawns, porches and driveways; it was a really dynamic showcase of all things Paris is beloved for - amazing artisans, beautiful homes, vivacious nature and nice neighbours. Across six streets, behind the Willet Hospital, the Banfield Art Crawl had a great selection of craft and creations including printmaking, paintings, jewellery, photography, metalwork, clothing, fibre art and more. The weather wasn’t wonderful, but the vibes were still vibrant, all the art brightened and warmed up the many attendees who crawled between 10 AM and 4 PM, accompanied by acoustic music from Eric Kuhn and bawdy band The Garage Mahals who brought brilliant energy too.

BAC 2024 Artist Linny Jones of Tree Of Life Studios on her lawn with her multi-media eco art. I had to share this picture because it's my (Rubyyy) Mom and I'm super proud of her for a great first art show!

Me and my merry band of creative friends made the rounds, all feeling so inspired by the work and wonder on show, and all of us leaving with our wallets happily lighter. I got a really pretty card from wunderkind Watercolours by Clara, a sensational mini sketch - a portrait of a peacock’s head - from Sad Trash Art on St Andrew Street and a really sweetheart shaped vessel from Head’s Pottery, created by Heather Licskai. All the booths, artists in attendance and offerings were fascinating and fantastic this year, and I’m really excited to see how the Banfield Art Crawl will evolve and elevate for year three.

Paris previously claimed the title of Prettiest Little town in Canada and, although beauty is a much misunderstood and maligned power and commodity, I would say that Paris is indeed pretty, but I look forward to the day it’s named its most truest -est - the artyest!

The Banfield Art Crawl was a charming reminder that one of our most valuable assets is our community and the talented, effervescent people who make up the neighbourhoods, streets and sectors of our town and county; bravo to all involved for your great art and your great contribution to the richness and radiance of Paris.

More photos on page 8