Steppin' Out

Cover Story

Lisa Paige's textile art ÔAutumnÕ is among the works featured at AVArtfest.

Fine Art al Fresco

Local artists show a variety of art at AVArtfest

By Heather Zimmerman

Usually, one thinks of fine art as belonging in a gallery or museum, but the Alliance of Visual Artists takes it outside with the AVArtfest, an annual fine art show set in a sculpture garden.

The 12th annual AVArtfest takes place June 2-3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the grounds of the Triton Museum, 1505 Warburton Ave., Santa Clara

The festival's main event is a juried art show and sale featuring the work of more than 200 artists. Visitors can add to--or start--their collections of fine art with pieces created in a variety of media, such as paintings, drawings, prints, mixed-media, photography, calligraphy, ceramics and other sculptures, and fiber art. A percentage of the proceeds from art sales benefits education programs at the Triton.

In addition to the show, festival-goers can enjoy art demonstrations and have the chance to win works of art in special prize drawings. The event also includes food and entertainment. New this year is a headliner band. The Unauthorized Rolling Stones hits the stage on Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

AVArtfest got its start as a joint show presented by a coalition of artists' clubs. Now participation is open to individual artists, as well as to artists' club members. The show's roster includes up-and-comers and established artists.

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.avartfest.org.