Christy & Rodney Ueberroth

Wade Hafke, Gayle Helmkamp & Danny Kasabian

Aimee Monk & Zach Trethewey

Shana & Colton Walden

Jeni Sistrunk & Tricia Pharr

Blaine Gavin, Nicole Skou & Preston Neal

T

he Gulf Coast Arts Festival was held in Bartram Park between Friday, November 4 
and Sunday, November 5. The Gulf Coast Arts Festival is one of the best-regarded, 
most popular arts festivals in the United States. The three-day, juried art show draws 
more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic 

artists, craftsmen, and other types of artists. The festival is ranked number 30 in the nation by 
Sunshine Artist Magazine.

Performing companies, dance schools, community groups, and area folk groups use their 

performances to showcase their particular skills. Craft artists demonstrate traditional arts, 
crafts, and trades, including blacksmithing, engraving, spinning, weaving, and other skills in the 
Heritage Arts Area.

Children have the opportunity to become artists as well at the Children’s Arts Festival with 

numerous hands-on art activities. The children’s art activities are free, fun, and geared toward 
children from toddler age and up. The Student Art Show showcases the talents of both private 
and public school students of Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. Over 2,000 pieces of art from 
elementary, middle, and high school students were on display.

Traditional treats at the Heritage Festival were featured, as well as local favorites and regional 

festival fare. Delicious dining and drink choices for every taste were offered, including a wide 
variety of food truck and homemade options. 

The invited international artist this year was Yume Matsuo, who was featured as a direct 

cultural exchange within the community. 

Gulf Coast Arts Festival

photos & story by

 

Kristina Wright 

Charles Kye & Madeline Jay

   VIP Pensacola at Bartram Park

80     |    VIPPensacola.com

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12/26/17   4:57 PM