An estimated 300 artists showcased their work at the latest Port Clinton Art Festival in downtown Highland Park, drawing thousands of attendees. Aurora artist Mays Mayhew captured attention with a diptych titled “Headwinds Tailwinds.” Mayhew shared, “My work is based on emotional narrative. They’re all stories.”
On opening day, weather conditions were overcast but moved to sunny for the two-day event, which was open to the public for free. Amy Amdur, president of the festival organizing group Amdur Productions, commented on the event’s success. “The people who attend and support the arts make this show special; without them, we wouldn’t have the successful show that we have,” she said.
This year, the festival supported WINGS Program Inc., aiding individuals affected by domestic violence, and PFLAG, an LGBTQ advocacy organization. More information about these organizations is available at PFLAG and WINGS Program.
Music was a highlighted feature with several new musicians performing across three stages. Every two hours, a new act took to the stage. Among the performers was Allie Kessel from Chicago, singing “Jolene” in tribute to the late Dolly Parton. Commenting on the tribute, Kessel expressed, “Just feels good to pay tribute to her.” Amy Amdur remarked, “Art can be very soothing, helping you through a hard time,” and added fondly, “I love her voice.”
Digital artist Jesse Kunerth from Pittsburgh featured a unique portrait of Dolly Parton, 18 by 24 inches on wood, priced at $300. He also offered prints at $40, selling several. Many attendees expressed interest in the Dolly Parton prints, often purchasing them. Kunerth joined the festival for the first time, saying, “Oh man, she’s a great person, does so much good work.”
Amy Amdur reflected on the festival’s importance in uniting the community, especially following the tragic July 4, 2022, Highland Park Independence Day parade incident that claimed seven lives. “Art is important, but ever since the tragedy, it’s even more important,” Amdur stated, emphasizing that “Art is bringing everybody together.”
Learn more about the festival at Amdur Productions.
Karie Angell Luc contributed to this article for Pioneer Press.