Above: Naperville Art League members’ reenactment of famous Seurat painting promoted the first Riverwalk Fine Art Fair in 1985. As colorful as ever, the 30th Annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair is slated for 10AM-5PM Sept. 19 & 20. (Photo courtesy Naperville Art League.)
Special to PN
By Linda VanderKolk
Creative minds came up with a novel way to kick off Naperville’s very first Riverwalk Fine Art Fair. Thirty years ago, members of the Naperville Art League invited the community to a reenactment of Georges Seurat’s painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” You may recognize the painting as part of the Art Institute of Chicago’s permanent collection.
To recreate the painting, Naperville Art League members spent months sewing costumes, gathering props, developing a riverside plan, scheduling photographers and the press, and informing the public of the event. On a warm September 1985 day, Naperville Art League members took their places by the river and the new art fair they were promoting became the talk of the town.
Riverwalk Fine Art Fair has grown and is now recognized as one of the country’s best juried fine art fairs. It continues to be a source of pride with the nearly 200 art league members who, under guidance of Executive Director, Debbie Venezia, plan, organize and host the event each year. Over 130 national and international artists are expected to participate this year, September 19-20.
The event, held downtown along the Riverwalk, draws thousands of visitors to Naperville. The corporate community sponsors the event, and this year the League welcomes back their presenting sponsor, Main Street Promenade along with corporate sponsors Cadillac of Naperville, and Naperville Bank and Trust. Stop by Naperville Art League’s Info Booth (# 130A) to purchase current and past collectible art fair posters and banners, pick up class information, and learn about membership.
The League owns and operates Naperville Fine Art Center & Gallery, at the corner of 5th Ave. and Center St. Open to the public, the Gallery features monthly shows of members’ original art, and a gift shop. Naperville Art League offers a variety of classes and workshops for adults and children, hosts an annual Public Art Competition, and offers a number of special events. Visit www.napervilleartleague.com.
