By Kim Hilsenbeck
It’s been months in the making, but the Buda Fine Art Express is almost here. This juried fine art event hosted by Chrysalis Art Foundation, takes place at Buda City Park later this month.
A few years ago, Chrysalis founder Kay Bailey wanted a way to help unknown, emerging artists market themselves and sell their work. This Buda resident, formerly of Wimberley, started the organization with the goal of promoting local artists through various events.
During the winter holidays, Chrysalis brought artists to downtown Buda to paint store windows with holiday themed pictures. The group also participates in events such as First Thursday and local festivals.
Bailey hit on the big idea of an art festival along with an all-volunteer board, and has been working nonstop to make that happen. Though she recently had to step down as the organization’s president for health reasons, she is still active in Chrysalis and the art show.
Bailey and fellow board member Maureen O’Donnel-Hintz, also of Buda, sat down with the Hays Free Press recently to talk about the Buda Fine Art Express.
Why a juried show?
“It’s to guarantee the quality and make sure all fine art is represented at the event,” Bailey said.
The jurors included art collectors, an educator and an art league president.
Weeding through the applications was a time consuming process. Nearly 50 artists in a variety of mediums were selected and will have booths at the art show. Bailey said 87 artists applied.
“We’ve got artists in sculpture, paint, jewelry, pottery and ceramics, oils, pastels, glass, mixed media, photography and more,” Bailey said. “And the paintings are all original work, not prints.”
Artists hail from near and far, including local folks from the greater Central Texas region.
Bailey said the art show is a good way for art collectors and art enthusiasts to meet and talk with artists. She hopes that not only will they sell their work but that some may even end up doing commissioned pieces or projects.
O’Donnell-Hintz is helping with advertising and promotion, though with a small budget, she said it’s been challenging to let area residents know about the event.
While it’s not exactly a festival, she said there will be live music by Acoustalyn, a local group. But more importantly, the event is a way to showcase artistic talent and promote the creators.
“It helps get their name and work out there and gives them exposure they might not otherwise get,” O’Donnell-Hintz said.
The Buda Fine Art Express takes place April 18-19 at Buda City Park. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available, Bailey said.
For more info
Visit http://chrysalisartfoundation.org to learn more or to become a sponsor or volunteer.
