THE EARLY FESTIVAL
In it’s early years, the main emphasis of the Festival was fine art in a festive atmosphere. There were judged pieces in both amateur and professional divisions, a youth art exhibit, and a venue for artists of all levels to display their work. Throughout its history, this commitment to art has remained constant and today is realized in the Art at the Port exhibition that showcases cutting edge northwest art through Invitational and Juried shows.
1983 Festival
Early entrepreneurs sold their arts and crafts in the street in a broad range of mediums – not so different from the juried artists who are still the bread and butter of the Festival. In the 60’s there was a designated “discovery gallery,” in which any artist could submit artwork to be hung on a clothesline and sold for either $1 or $5.
Another historical constant of the Festival has been entertainment. Originally it was a jazz venue at the local high school; today attendees need not leave the Festival thoroughfare to enjoy the four stages showcasing sounds from around the world and northwest jazz and blues.
PARTICIPANTS
As luck would have it, as the Festival was making a name for itself, so were early contributors. Several gained national prominence as the fathers of a “new” northwest style of art. Others were affiliated with museums and universities, keeping the Festival in touch with emerging art trends. Through the participation of many influential participants, the Anacortes Festival was quietly and unassumingly establishing a reputation in the northwest art scene.
