A banner hanging over Town Center Plaza Thursday morning marks the return of First Thursday Fayetteville for the 2012 season.
Staff photo
After a brief winter hibernation, one of Fayetteville’s favorite events is back.
First Thursday, the monthly art walk that has become a huge event over the last few years, will return to the downtown square for another season at 5 p.m. tonight.
This will be the first event since the Fayetteville Underground artists moved out of the basement of East Square Plaza, and while organizers hope that the artist collective can soon regroup in a new space on the square, as they say in show business, the show must go on.
Tonight’s event also marks the first time the outdoor art walk will be allowed to take up the entire square since the City Council approved an expansion in March.
There’s a slight chance of rain tonight, but otherwise, it looks like it’s gonna be an awesome event. See you there?
On the square
Tiffany Christopher
About 30 artists and craftspeople will have their work for sale on the square, including jewelry by Brandy Thomason of Bella Vita Jewelry, paintings and prints by Liz Cantwell, and photography by Amber Moore.
Artsits from The Art Location will also be doing live-painting on the square.
Music-wise, local singer/songwriter Tiffany Christopher will perform from 5-9 p.m.
The proceeds from the outdoor beer garden, located just in front of the Town Center on the south side of the square, will benefit the Fayetteville Animal Shelter this month.
On top of all that, expect free parking at the Town Center parking garage and city lots surrounding the Square after 5 p.m.
Fayetteville Town Center
Art in the Fayetteville Town Center is a relatively new feature in the First Thursday lineup.
This month, local artists Erica Pruitt and Yvonne Daily will display work in the lobby.
Earth Day Events inside East Square Plaza
Organizers of Earth Day NWA will kick off the 2012 festivities today at East Square Plaza.
Mayor Lioneld Jordan will make a proclamation on Fayetteville’s commitment to advancing sustainability at 6 p.m. inside East Square Plaza.
Immediately following the mayor’s proclamation, a B-Earth Day party will begin (get it?) featuring live music by Snake Eyes and The Bug Band, a “trashion” fashion show, an art auction, a potluck, and more.
Around the square
Matt Miller Studios will be open to showcase Miller’s artwork, and well as work by resident-jewelry maker Lauren Embree.
Several merchants around the square will stay open later than usual to accommodate art lovers. Flyer Sponsors The Mustache Goods & Wears, Riffraff, and Savoir-Faire will all be open until around 8 p.m. tonight.
Sponsors
