'ArtFeast' brings culture to Old Town

By Larry Hook
The Lookout Adviser

Things were hopping in Lansing’s Old Town District last Saturday, Aug. 19, during “ArtFeast,” a festival featuring artwork from over 100 artists, and foods from all over the world.

With sunny skies and temperatures in the 80s, thousands of people packed Turner Street on Lansing’s north side, scurrying from booth to booth to view and/or purchase paintings, photographs, pottery, jewelry, handmade rugs and much more.

Turner Street was filled with more than 100 artist booths during ArtFeast.  Photo by Larry Hook

About 10 food trucks lined nearby Clinton Street with selections from various regions, including Mexico, Peru, the Middle East, the U.S. and more.

In addition to the art booths and food trucks, more than 30 unique boutique shops, five art galleries and 10 restaurants in Old Town opened their doors to guests during the day-long celebration.

Jennifer Taggart Wilson from “Studio Jenny Wren” was one of the artists showing and selling her work during ArtFeast. Her work includes paintings and fiber art. One of her specialties is “pet rugs,” featuring animal–inspired artwork.

“Sales were a little slow, but overall it was a great experience,” Taggart Wilson said. “Everybody was so cool that stopped by. I had a lot of people come by. A lot of people were interested in my pet rugs, so hopefully I’ll get some orders out of that.”

“This was my first outdoor festival so I didn’t really have any expectations going in. It was great."

Artist C.A. Risk holds one of the many paintings he displayed during ArtFeast.  Photo by Larry Hook