Weather Helps Art On The Square Succeed

Oskaloosa’s Art on the Square celebrated 51 years this weekend.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Art on the Square in downtown Oskaloosa may have been down slightly in the number of vendors this year. That didn’t hurt those browsing for a special work of art as a gift or their home.

Maureen McHale is an artist from northeast Missouri who has traveled to Oskaloosa the past few years selling her photography.

McHale says that much of her work comes from subjects near where she lives. ‘If you shoot locally, you really need to look hard for something that is a little interesting.”

McHale also travels to other portions of Iowa with her camera looking for those special scenes or wildlife to capture.

She at times gets tips from locals on good places to shoot, or from others at art fairs like the one in Oskaloosa over the weekend.

She added that art fairs are nice because you find out why people like your work, and sometimes why they don’t. “That’s kind of interesting to find out too.”

Oskaloosa Main Street Director Emily Brown says that in the second year of a two day show, and believes the new tradition of a two day show will continue into the future.

Art on the Square has helped to lead to a celebration of the arts in Oskaloosa.

Other than the beforementioned photography works, there were artists who create pottery, painters, both using oils but also acrylics. A leather craftsman was also on hand to share traditional works, while there was a modern artist who’s creations begin on a digital drawing pad. Purses and jewelry artists also share their work over the two-day event.

A steady crowd greeted the artists on Friday evening during Friday After Five, and then again on Saturday morning, as the traffic stayed steady until just after 2 pm, with the day’s largest crowds on hand from approximately 10 am to noon.

The laid-back mood was accentuated by the musical artists who shared their talents with those browsing the booths.

That relaxing atmosphere was a goal, “a place where people can come and enjoy art,” Brown added.

“And obviously great weather,” Brown added of what is often referred to as chamber of commerce weather.

I jokingly asked Brown how much she and the chamber paid for the weather on Friday and Saturday. “I can’t disclose that figure,” Brown joked back.