Arts Alive: Celebrating the Vibrancy of Bay St. Louis

Arts Locale - April 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity, inspiration, and fun on April 13-14, 2024. Hosted in the Bay St. Louis historic Depot District, this two-day interactive art festival presented by The Arts, Hancock County promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.

- by Steve Barney

Arts Locale is supported by

The countdown has begun for one of the most anticipated arts and music events on the coast – Arts Alive! This year’s festival has expanded offerings throughout the weekend. Now spanning two full days, the event promises even more opportunities to explore, discover, and celebrate the Arts. On Saturday April 13 and Sunday April 14, from 10 am to 5 pm each day, the Depot will come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and flavors. And the best part? Admission is completely free, making it the perfect outing for families and art enthusiasts alike.
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​One of the highlights of Arts Alive is undoubtedly the diverse array of artists and their creations. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Depot grounds and marvel at the talent on display.

The event’s organizer, Nancy Mellon, states, “From stunning paintings to jewelry, pottery and sculpture, there’s something to captivate every imagination along the Artist Trail, where local artisans showcase their award-winning works, providing insight into the rich tapestry of our community’s creativity.”

But Arts Alive isn’t just about admiring art – it’s also a chance to experience it firsthand. In the MakerSpace, located at the Community Center at 301 Blaize Avenue, artists showcase and demonstrate their skills and techniques in real-time. It’s a rare opportunity to witness creativity in action, offering insight into the creative process and sparking inspiration for your own artistic endeavors. In addition to demonstrations, a variety of hands-on activities are available for visitors to get their hands dirty and explore new avenues of creativity.

Also in the Community Center, a student art exhibition highlights the amazing talent of aspiring student artists from across Hancock County.
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For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Culinary Arts competition for desserts, where cash prizes await the top three winners.

This year’s musical lineup, curated by Arts stalwart John Anderson, is truly spectacular, featuring an eclectic lineup of 9 local acts spanning rock, blues, folk, pop, zydeco, and roots. 
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• ​Jesse Loya: Local blues legend and producer with roots in the East LA music and culture scene brings a vibrant take on traditional blues and roots music.
• Tjon: The Coast native’s keyboards and vocals with a celebratory tone always brings a party. A unique entertainer!
• Kelsey Moran: A stellar guitar player and vocalist with an accessible and engaging performing style. A positive spirit with loads of talent!
• Assumed Risk: BSL-based classic rock mainstay with tight and hard-hitting guitar riffs; always a local favorite.
• Crow the Culprit: Critically acclaimed Diamondhead band that plays original tunes in the folk rock, singer-songwriter tradition. Their multitude of instruments and vocal harmonies are not to be missed.

• Heather and the Monkey King: Guitar aficionado Steve Harper and his wife Heather, both teachers, have been performing jazz standards, uptown blues, and rockabilly for over twenty years. It’s one of the best duos you’ll ever hear.

• Tyron Benoit Band: Louisiana native crosses genres: rock and roll, country, and some native Louisiana zydeco. His stage presence alternates between a fiery revival tent preacher and a soothing singer. Hard driving, arena-ready rock with Louisiana heat!

• Hadley Hill: Pass Christian native brings a youthful exuberance, beautiful voice, and expressive guitar playing to her performances that sets her apart from the crowd.

• Shannon “Bayou” Williford: Regional blues legend has been performing and teaching a variety of blues styles for over forty years. Masterful guitar and harmonica coupled with dynamic vocals.

• Mississippi Fred G: Mixing classic folk, blues, and soul tunes with a catalog of originals populated with scoundrels, scalawags, and seductresses. A true original.

 
Kick off the festivities in style at the Patrons Preview Party on April 12 from 6 pm to 8 pm. This exclusive event offers a sneak peek into the artistic wonders that await, with tickets priced at $50 each. 
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Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join us for a weekend of creativity, community, and celebration at Arts Alive 2024. With so much to see, do, and experience, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
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​Details including a larger festival map and schedule of performances is available HERE.

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