HISTORY
The festival was founded in 1992 by Ottawa artist Bhat Boy to provide opportunities for up-and-coming artists. Originally known as Art in the Park, it began as a grassroots event with local artists gathering in Central Park for a day of visual art, music, picnicking and merriment under the now extinct huge maple tree in the middle of the lower park.
In 2009, under the direction of Chandler Swain, the festival’s name changed and its criteria focused exhibiting handmade, original, one-of-a-kind artworks. The New Art Festival also became juried in order to maintain a high calibre event and to honour the artists who remain committed to their craft and to the creation of one-of-a-kind artworks. Partnerships with local art businesses and enthusiasts resulted in awards that recognize several of these artists each year.
Today, The New Art Festival remains Ottawa’s original, highly anticipated juried outdoor art exhibit. Featuring nearly 200 artists, this two-day event continues to inspire and engage people of all ages. The New Art Festival is a non-profit event that remains committed to its grassroots beginnings and takes pride in creating a community that artists and visitors return to year after year.
In 2009, under the direction of Chandler Swain, the festival’s name changed and its criteria focused exhibiting handmade, original, one-of-a-kind artworks. The New Art Festival also became juried in order to maintain a high calibre event and to honour the artists who remain committed to their craft and to the creation of one-of-a-kind artworks. Partnerships with local art businesses and enthusiasts resulted in awards that recognize several of these artists each year.
Today, The New Art Festival remains Ottawa’s original, highly anticipated juried outdoor art exhibit. Featuring nearly 200 artists, this two-day event continues to inspire and engage people of all ages. The New Art Festival is a non-profit event that remains committed to its grassroots beginnings and takes pride in creating a community that artists and visitors return to year after year.