SWAMPSCOTT — With the pandemic shutting down all of its indoor events, ReachArts has decided to take the art outside this summer.
The organization will hold its first Garden Art Walk on Sunday, July 11. Local artists will be able to showcase their work and give demonstrations while surrounded by the beauty of neighborhood gardens.
“The goal is to get people outside and moving, and just being able to appreciate what people are doing,” said ReachArts Co-President Heidi Shear.
Shear explained that the organization had hoped in the past to hold a studio tour event, where local artists show their workspaces, but that COVID-19 had stopped them from doing so.
Attendees will receive a map that will list the participating gardens. In addition to the art, the event will include activities for children, such as clay pot painting and other craft and gardening activities, and a treasure hunt.
“There’s something that will engage all ages,” Shear said.
During the pandemic, ReachArts has been able to hold some programming. Their First Friday open mic nights have gone virtual, and they are partway through a virtual author talk series, the next event in which will be held May 20.
As COVID restrictions lift, Shear said they hope to continue holding more in-person events, including PorchFest and other events in the fall.
Currently, the organization is looking for volunteers to participate in the Garden Art Walk. Those looking to register as an artist or a host garden can do so on the ReachArts website until June 7. There is a $10 registration fee. Other volunteers can email [email protected] to get involved.
The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 11, with a rain date of July 18. Attendance is free, with donations encouraged. For more information, visit reacharts.org.
Tréa Lavery can be reached at [email protected].
