On Saturday the Young Evanston Artists (YEA) held their annual art fair.
Held since 1987, the festival allows students in Evanston schools to showcase their artistic talent with a sidewalk show and performance stage.
Art projects are prepared from the beginning of the school year.
I was quite inspired by the vibrant art created by children and teenagers.
There were paintings, collages, drawings, mosaics, and embroidery.
Sculptural works included fiber, wire, paper mache and pottery.
A media room was set up to showcase movies, and a stage allowed students to perform songs.
This year the weather was fantastic, starting off with a chill but warming up and remaining cloud-free all day.
I remember several years where it was too cold to linger and I would rush inside to warm up or get out of the rain.
It was wonderful to peruse the whimsical and realistic creatures rendered, and to be reminded of techniques that can spark creativity and influence my own art.
The Young Evanston Artists Foundation (YEA!) is a private, tax deductible foundation under IRS tax code 501(c)(3) and supported entirely by individuals, families and businesses.