Some might say that people have been asking, "What is art?" ever since a cave man scrawled a little something on his wall. Providing the perfect, all-encompassing answer is Artscape.
For the word-conscious, the three-day extravaganza offers a "Slam!Poetry Workshop" for teens on Sunday, readings from poet Kathleen Corcoran and prose writer Lalita Noronha on Friday, and a chance for budding Shakespeares to explore at the Create-A-Story Station 1 p.m.-4 p.m. each day.
Those searching for a visual aesthetic can rest their eyes on one of the 10 exhibits which include a juried exhibition, outdoor sculpture and craft and fine arts markets. A must-see is the 4th Annual Car Show which transforms a huge heap o' metal into an artist's canvas. All exhibits are free.
The Cultural Compass International Dance Performances highlights a variety of moves and shakes on Saturday and Sunday. African Heritage dancers move to the beat of drummers, the Balli D' Italia group displays folk dancing, and the Soaring Eagle Dance Troupe floats through the air.
Endless family fun and eating will be offered in copious amounts. Throughout the festival grounds, street performers will present magic, clownery, juggling and caricature drawing. Also, storytellers, craft workshops and Pumpkin Theatre's " 'Bout Baltimore" will keep the kiddies happy. If the entertainment fails to amuse, Plan B includes chocolate chip cookies, ice cream, snowballs, tacos, hot dogs and fried dough. For Mom and Dad, an array of ethnic food will be sold: Caribbean, Cajun, Greek, Mexican and Chinese. No artist will be starving at this event.
Hoping to reach out to people of all ages, abilities and art tastes, festival organizers have taken great strides to provide something for everyone for free. Services include sign interpretation, large-print and Braille editions of festival publications, extended public transportation, free and easy parking for those with handicapped tags or stickers. There is simply no excuse for not attending Artscape and supporting the local arts community.
Pub Date: 7/24/97
