Chicago is currently in full swing with its weekend festivals and outdoor celebrations. In keeping with this Chicago summer tradition, the much anticipated Lake Meadows Art Fair will be held on Father’s Day Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19, 2016, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Bronzeville community at 33rd Street and Martin Luther King Drive across from the Lake Meadows Shopping Center. Now in the 11th year of revitalization, the Lake Meadows Art Fair will showcase more than 25 locally and nationally acclaimed fine artists, jewelry makers, clothing designers, artisans and vendors of specialty items and collectibles. Food and beverages will also be available for sale.
Helen Y. West, curator and executive producer of the Lake Meadows Art Fair, is pleased to welcome the many talented artists and artisans who represent the beauty and brilliance of the African-American and African heritage and culture. “Once again we celebrate the richness of our culture and show support for those who help to keep this culture alive through their beautiful paintings, sculpture, ceramics, photography, wearable art clothing, handmade jewelry and more,” said Ms. West. “This year, during Father’s Day Weekend, we also take time to pay tribute to fathers and invite couples and families to visit and enjoy the Lake Meadows Art Fair together,” she added.
Each year, the Lake Meadows Art Fair presents a featured artist. The 2016 honoree is the esteemed Mark Richardson, a native of Chicago’s Bronzeville community. Mark has a diverse body of work and the influences of Romare Bearden, Archibald Motley, John Biggers, Pablo Picasso and Ernie Barnes are seen throughout his work. Mark Richardson’s artwork can be found in galleries, major art shows and exhibitions nationwide and in the private collections of many avid collectors of fine art.
With a great line-up of entertainment, the Lake Meadows Art Fair also uses music to enhance its outdoor atmosphere throughout the weekend. Beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, Joan Collasso’s Timeless Gifts — a group of talented youngsters and teenagers whose musical abilities will amaze and inspire the audience — take center stage for a live performance. Under the tutelage of acclaimed jazz vocalist Joan Collasso, members of Timeless Gifts will have everyone on their feet singing and dancing to their unique sounds.
Sunday’s opening, live performance will begin at 3:00 p.m. as the Kinari Allison Ensemble, led by youthful percussionist Kinari Allison, brings a range of jazz and popular music to the stage. Allison is a dazzling performer who often uses his drum sticks to make music on any objects in his range, including the steps and speakers.
And performing for the first time on the Lake Meadows Art Fair stage at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday is Nannette Frank, who has been called “one of Chicago’s jazz greats” by WGN Morning News. With an impeccable five-octave range, Ms. Frank is the voice behind such major brands as Coca-Cola (Always Coca-Cola) national radio and television spots. She is a singer, songwriter, vocal arranger and producer who has toured with Stanley Clarke, Herbie Hancock, Alex Bugnon, The Jazz Crusaders and the late Jon Lucian. Ms. Frank will bring her personal blend of jazz and R&B to the Lake Meadows Art Fair to close out the two-day event.
DJ LaRay Reddin keeps the music flowing throughout both days with a combination of jazz, R&B, old school, funk and hip hop.
Attending the Lake Meadows Art Fair is a fun affair for the entire family. For the discerning shopper, Lake Meadows’ artists, artisans and vendors present a wide range of original artwork and limited edition prints, elegant clothing, one-of-a-kind jewelry, delightful collectibles, specialty items and so much more. Celebrate this Father’s Day Weekend with great shopping and great music.
For more information, visit www.lakemeadowsartfair.com or call 312-593-0230.
