How BAYarts supports artists in the time of COVID
BAYarts' mission to support artists comes in many forms. The Annual Art & Music Festival was conceived as an alternative event to other festivals that often charged large entry fees.
“The intent of this event has always been to make it affordable for artists who make their livings in this short window of summer festivals,” said BAYarts Artistic Director Karen Petkovic, “and also to keep it local and handmade.” Unfortunately, in the current crisis, this event was cancelled for the year.
BAYarts' Sullivan Family and Boldman galleries have always showcased local artists, both emerging and professional. Although BAYarts will continue to feature artists on their walls and through virtual exhibitions; the traditional gallery openings, where hundreds attend and socialize, are on hold.
BAYarts' successful consignment shop features artists year-round, with a special holiday shop each year. The shop will reopen in June with a new look that implements state mandates for safety. The shop will have a new entrance and be expanded for social-distance shopping and other features such as no-touch payment options.
“Artists who depend on festivals and flea markets still have the option of selling their goods to their target audience: lovers of original and handmade local goods, year-round at BAYarts,” says Petkovic.
If you can’t wait until the reopening, BAYarts shop is now online at www.bayarts.net, with products available for pickup.
BAYarts' shop has been around for decades in various forms, going online is just a new chapter and we will continue to do all we can to "keep it local."