Who doesn’t enjoy a good turkey drumstick, funnel cake or roasted almonds coated in cinnamon-sugar bliss? Festival food is always sure to draw the masses, but art has the power to make one linger long after the party’s over.
Tulsa International Mayfest returns to the streets of downtown Tulsa Thursday, May 16-Sunday, May 19. It’s the four days out of the year when the corporate workforce peering down all those one-way streets don’t feel quite as lonely since many Tulsa residents visit the many booths along Main Street as well as Third and Fourth streets during the day. Fine artists from Tulsa and other parts of the country display their skills in painting, sculpture, photography and many other fields. Also of note, artisans working in less conventional media to make one-of-a-kind ornaments for the home are also home among the fine artists, like a happy community. And that’s what Mayfest is – a temporary home to creativity. At the indoor galleries, you’ll find the Mayfest Youth Art Gallery, a dedicated space and wing of the festival that fosters development of young talent, which ensures the festival’s future.
We could mention that the festival has some superb music acts headed to the stages – Monte Montgomery and John Fullbright (see In Concert) on May 16, Royal Southern Brotherhood (line-up on the Mayfest website) with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit on May 17, and Will Hoge with Uncle Lucius on May 18. But concerts are just part of the fun. Also look for cool Kidzone activities and live performances from area dance, theater and music groups on the various stages.
Mayfest is a long-time tradition going back to 1973. When you think of all the artists who have shown their work, it amounts to a significant cultural contribution. Here’s to many more!
For more on Mayfest, schedules and about the juried art, go to www.tulsamayfest.org.
