Salem Virginia's First Annual Art on the Way Art Show Continues Late Artist Harriett Stokes' Tradition

    ROANOKE, VA, September 17, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Salem Fine Arts Commission, City of Salem, and Salem Museum & Historical Society present the First Annual Art on the Way Art Show on Saturday, October 4, 2014. The festivities commence at noon and continue until 6:00p.m. along newly named Harriett Stokes Way located behind the Salem Museum & Historical Society adjacent to Longwood Park in Salem, Virginia.

Art on the Way is dedicated to the memory of local Salem, pioneering artist Harriett Stokes, responsible for 40 years of the successful Art in the Alley art show. She was an accomplished fine artist and considered the "grande dame of art in the valley"; most importantly, Harriett is most remembered as a passionate mentor and for giving back to the arts community with art education. "We hope that Art on the Way brings back the tradition and community enthusiasm for visual arts that Art in the Alley generated for so many years," remarked Salem Fine Arts Commission Chairman, Cameron Vest, "we hope that Art on the Way continues to grow for generations to come." The show features prominent local and regional fine artists contributing original works judged by esteemed juror and curator, Leah Stoddard, awarding $1000 to the first place winner.

The outdoor juried art show will be held rain or shine. Live music begins at 1:00 and features The Band Concord as well as performers from the Music Lab from the Jefferson Center. The festivities and family fun also include Parkway Brewery and Hot Stones Pizza. "Like" us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/artontheway14, and keep up with the latest information.

Inside the Salem Museum, visitors will be able to experience three art exhibits (as well as the informative displays on local history). Children's author and artist Cece Bell is the subject of the featured exhibit on the first floor, especially highlighting her new memoir "El Deafo." Works by famed local illustrator Walter Biggs will be exhibited on the second floor of the museum, and a commemorative exhibition of posters from the decades of Art in the Alley will also be on display as a loving tribute to founder Harriett Stokes.

The Salem Fine Arts Commission is a Salem City Council appointed body assigned to "to inform, encourage, and involve the Salem community in the fine arts." The Commission seeks to bring the arts community together for activities and opportunities to share the varied talents of our community.

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