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The West Palm Beach Art Fair: An Enriching Experience
This week my husband and I ventured out to the West Palm Beach Art Fair which was held at the popular downtown marketplace called "City Place". The art fair is fairly new to the city and it displays art designs ranging from sculptures and photography to glass art, jewelry, clothing and music. The mediterranean architecture of the location gives you the feeling that you are in another country.
As you stroll down the passageway, the booths offer a variety of interesting wares and artistic creations. We saw some really unique sculptures that would easily add a point of interest to any home. The fine quality of merchandise is unbelievable, and there is something for everyone to enjoy
Touring The Booths
We decided that on this trip we would keep a look out for artwork depicting a floridian or topical scene. As we went through the art displays, it became clear that it would not be an easy task to decide on which piece to purchase. The choices ranged widely in color, size, and theme, making our decision difficult. Another factor affecting our choice was the type of frame to choose. Would it be wood framed? Frameless? Glass? The selections were vast and seemingly endless. In the end, we could not decide and went home empty handed.
We enjoyed watching people haggle over prices, and it is a true art to watch. We heard one vendor annouce to a customer that they were fortunate to come that day because the price had just droppped to 1,500. Can you imagine buying two at that price? Yes, for this couple, it was the deal of the day.
We saw beautiful sculptures and loved the different designs that reflected the artist's creativity. It was almost like being at a museum! Many of the sculptures are quite large and it makes you wonder how they manage to transport the pieces without breaking them.
Cultural Enrichment
The Art Fair patrons browse the venue while listening to classical music that enhances the experience. There are many outdoor cafes that offer gourmet cuisine as well as the standard offerings such as pizza. People love to sit at the fountains under the shade, which allows them to relax while sipping on tea or a cup of coffee. The area is frequented by those who enjoy a leisurely stroll while walking their dog.
The sculptures vary and are just as diverse as the artisans who have formed them. The Spanish influence in the area is seen in many of the sculptures. They often portray the Cuban, Aztec or Mayan views of religious belief and culture. It is interesting to see how the colors vibrantly depict animals common to the area as mystical creatures.
If one is in the area, The City Place, West Palm Beach Art Fair is an event well worth the visit. The weather during March is perfect for the open air venue. And the mediterranean market place shops and cafes that border the fair cater to patrons who wish to stop in to browse or shop. It is a an event that offers high-end quality art, but also provides a cultural experience through music, foods and interaction with other patrons.
Strolling Through The Exhibits
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Map of South Florida Area
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Comments
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Hey, Peggy! I do agree that these fairs are fun and exiting events. I must check out your hub on the hotel. Believe it or not, we stayed there when we last visited family in San Francisco. I would love to see the sign and the Galveston artwalk. Thanks for stopping in and I will see you soon.
Art fairs like the one you described are truly fun to attend. In our home office is a large signed print that we purchased from an artist in San Francisco that was exhibiting his work among others in Huntington Park across from the Huntington Hotel. If you wish to see a picture of it check out my hub regarding the hotel.
In Galveston, Texas they have a monthly artwalk. I have had one person shows five different times down there. Unlike the open aired one you described, these venues are all inside buildings such as art galleries, restaurants, etc.
I loved hearing about the classical music being played, dogs being walked, comfortable nearby cafes and such in the West Palm Beach area during the art fair you attended. Sounds so very enjoyable! Voted up, interesting and will SHARE.
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Molly, don't you just love having a cup of coffee in places such as the Turkish cafe? We did enjoy ourselves, even though we didn't buy anything. Glad you enjoyed your mini-vacation here.. He, he he. Thanks for your support and comments.
Teaches, I adored the look of that Turkish cafe! It looks like the fair was a really fun day. We have something similar in my town, though not on so large a scale. I usually come back with a piece of jewelry like hand-blown glass or antique silver.
I really enjoy these hubs where you take us with you on a fun day out. I feel like I've had a vicarious vacation, lol!
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Cardelean, it is an annual Saturday event we enjoy with friends. The fair offers such a great variety of arts and crafts you do not often see. I would enjoy Ann Arbor's as I am sure the city hosts a really good show. Thanks for your support and follow. You have a wonderful weekend.
We have several art fairs in the Southeast Michigan area, with the Ann Arbor art fair being the most known. I haven't been to that one since I was a kid but I do find the art amazing to explore at these fairs. I can't imagine spending that amount either but to each his own! :) Sounds like you had a great time. Thanks for sharing your wonderful day.
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Hello, lindacee! The art fairs are such a draw in the early spring, especially after a cold winter. This one proved to be very enjoyable. Thanks for stopping by and for your supportive votes. Yes, get out there and enjoy browsing!
Thank you for the beautiful and informative Hub! I love art fairs and your descriptions and photos have inspired me to look up our local art events and check them out. I find that I usually leave empty-handed as well, but it is so much fun to browse and people watch, I don't even mind! Voted Up interesting and beautiful!
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Thank you Margie for your votes of support. I am so glad that you have stopped in for a visit on this hub topic. Thank you for your follow and I appreciate your support. I am getting over to read some of your hubs and follow you as well. Have a great day.
EXCELLENT! Voted up and across!
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I am so glad you enjoyed the stroll thtough the fair, Twentyfive. It is a pleasurable experience and one that allows you to see so much talent in one place. Thanks for the visit and your positive support. Have a great day.
I've felt I've been there with you. Those are so artistic and I love that the event offered lots of masterpiece :)
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You bring out a good point, Blond Logic. That would be another reason why people enjoy going to these fairs. It was a perfect day out, the weather was just beautiful. I always enjoy your comments and visits. Take care.
What a great setting for it. Often people feel awkward about going into galleries or boutiques but there they can openly browse and enjoy the artwork.
Looks like a great day out.
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I think it is the setting that makes this fair pleasant to attend. It was good to see you here, RTalloni. I enjoyed your reflection and appreciate your support. Have a blessed day.
Thanks for highlighting the Palm Beach Art Fair's venue. Your photos show some amazing work from the various artists. It would be difficult to find a lovelier setting for an art fair!
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It would be interesting to attend an art fair in London. I imagine the art would present different artistic views. Every culture has a paricular art expession, even in colors. Thank you for visiting and for leaving a comment. Blessings.
What an amazing time spent at a lovely place. I love art fairs and exhibitions. Lovely photos, you must have been spoilt for a choice. They do similar fairs here in London in many locations, and there is always something new one takes away in terms of learning about new cultures and their expression through the various artistic work. Nice article, thank you.
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Hello Prasetio30! It is so good to see you here. I am glad you enjoyed the fair, it was a relaxing day for us as well. Thank you for your visit and kind comments. Take care.
I love art very much and I found something great from this hub. There are many beautiful artwork at this art fair. I really enjoy all stunning pictures here. Nice report and this hub inspiring us to attend the fair like this one. Good job and rated up. Have a wonderful day!
Prasetio
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The cafes are relaxing and offer great coffee. Alicia, you would enjoy it. Thank you for stopping in, I value your comments.
This art fair looks like an enjoyable place to visit, teaches, especially since I like fiber sculptures. The seats at the Turkish sidewalk cafe look very comfortable, too!
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Thanks for voting on this one, Vocalcoach, you never know how much a topic will interest others. We take a trip each week to someplace different on our "date night" adventures. Thought I would post it for others to enjoy. This week we're off to the dog track -- that will be interesting! Thanks for your support and comments, always a pleasure to see you!
I would enjoy a trip to The West Palm Beach Art Fair as this is my favorite "escape." Anytime a street fair is close to home, you will find me there. Your photos are stunning! And so is this hub. Voting up!
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Sofs, you will have to do a hub on your paintings. I would find that really interesting to read. Yes, it is fun to get out to these fairs. Thanks for stopping in and for leaving a comment. I always enjoy your visits. God Bless.
Are fairs are my favorite outings... The inspiration that you get from these is awesome... I always come back and create my own painting or artwork before the muse mutes...Sounds like you had fun too. Thanks for sharing this :) Have a lovely day! God Bless.
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Hi, Rebecca! I think viewing art can be relaxing and puts a good smile in to your day. Glad you stopped by, I appreciate your visit and comment.
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Yes, you should stop in at one of these places, Drbj. The winter, as you know, is the best time for these outdoor events. I would love the food themed fairs just as well, maybe too well! Thanks for the comment and your visit.
Thanks for sharing this. Sounds like a great trip. I love art galleries and folk art!
Fascinating description of the West Palm Beach Art Fair, teaches. I'll have to make a note to visit it next year and the Palm Beach Zoo as well. We have art fairs several times a year in south Florida, too, but they concentrate more on the art of food than Art.
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Thanks for the visit, Christy. I am sure that Canada has some interesting events that we would find enjoyable. Be well and safe.
I enjoyed taking a virtual walk with you! I want the fair to travel to where I live in Canada :)
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It would be great to make a tour of all the art fairs across the US. There is so much that goes on and you can't possibly cover it in one article. Thanks for visiting and your comments. Take care.
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Billybuc, glad you came along. I believe Art Fairs are another sign of Spring and people attend because it's a means of celebration. Thanks for the comment.
I adore events like this and I would have loved to be at this one. I especially like the art fair that's held in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. I make it a point to visit every year.
I just love art fairs like the one you described. We have an Art Walk twice a year here in Olympia and it is always a must-see event. Love the people watching as well. Thanks for taking us on a tour of your event.
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Glad you came in for a visit, Eiddwen, and that you had a good time at the fair. Enjoy your day. Blessings!
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I think I would prefer the animal fiber sculptures to the real thing, and they do look life-like up close. I appreciate your vote, Alocsin, and welcome your visits.
I love these fairs and thanks to you and your beautiful photos and brilliant words we were all able to joinyou for your day .
Thank you so much for sharing this gem.
Take care and enjoy your day.
Eddy.
I love to go to community art fairs because you never know what you'll find and the variety is always great. I too like those animal fiber sculptures. Voting this Up and Interesting.
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I am like a kid at a candy store when I go to these events. I usually buy nothing, but the experience is priceless! Thanks for the supportitve vote, visit and your kind comments. Take care.
This is so very interesting and a feast for the eyes,the Art Fair is mind blowing, photographs awesome. After all the trudging around and viewing art pieces, the outdoor cafes must have been an oaisis. Great hub. Voted up and enjoyed reading.
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I wish you could be there too, Hyphenbird. You would enjoy the show and you deserve a good break. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. Blessings!
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Pamela, I am with you on paying that price -- I usually buy my art at retail stores using coupons. The art fairs are fun to attend, even if you just go to look. I appreciate your stopping in for a visit. Blessings!
I love street fairs and art shows. This one looks like fun. I wish I could be there. sigh
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Bookmom, your family will certainly enjoy the many events held here annually. I am glad that the hub will help your family feel at home. Thanks for the visit and comment. Be safe and well.
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Blawger, you must have seen some really nice events while living in Miami. They have so many cultural events thoughout the year. Yes, they do have beauitiful Spanish architecture that makes you think you are actually visiting Spain. The jewelry is beautiful and varies in design. The prices are a little higher than you would pay at the mall, but still reasonable. Thanks for visiting. I am so glad you came!
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It is one of many art shows around the South Florida area. There is a really nice one in Jupiter every February. Glad you enjoyed the hub, it was fun just to watch all the activity. Thanks for your vote of support.
I really enjoy going to art and craft shows. Your pictures were great and I enjoyed your descriptions. I love the unique crafts and jewelry, although I wouldn't be the one paying $1500 for a picture. Voted up!
How beautiful! You did a great job writing about your experience. I shared with a family member who is moving to that area next month, she'll have to remember to check it out. Such a rich experience.
Great pics! Looks like you had alot of fun. I loved in Miami for seven years and the Spanish and Mediterranean influences are definitely evident. The architecture and artwork is so beautiful. I will have to visit the West Palm Beach Art Fair next time I visit so that I can buy some pieces for my home. I especially liked the hand-crafted jewelry in your pics. Is the jewelry reasonably priced or should I start saving up now?
I enjoyed your review of the Art Fair. Whenever we travel we seek out the art community and enjoy the museums and galleries. I will put the West Palm Beach fair on our list for sure. Thanks for the information and I loved your photos. Voted this hub up!
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