Jonathan and Holly Gilpin, a cartoonist and art teacher from Lexington came to support other artists. They also said they brought their daughter Clara to expose her to all forms of art. Holly said they bought a book from a an author from Orlando. She said it was neat because they used to live there so they got the chance to connect. Holly Gilpin said the book and arts combination was a unique aspect of the event.
Jonathan Gilpin said people who aren’t exposing themselves to arts should find things that they can relate to.
“A lot of the books and artists base their work on Kentucky life and I think that makes it more accessible to people. As opposed to art that is made in California or New York, this is made here — you get to talk to the artist, then you get that connection between what they were thinking when they were making it. If you love your home, you might find something in that art that reminds you of your home and the love that you have for that.”
Another goal of the festival was to get children exposed to the value of reading and different forms of art. The kids were able to draw with chalk on the street, paint their own addition to the kids mural, get their face painted and make pottery to take home.
Iva Gautier, co-chairmen of the Arts Council of Mercer County Volunteer Committee, explained that the kids are the most expressive people around and the president of the arts council, Joy Mosko, wanted to give them something to interact with along with their parents.
“When kids get involved in the arts early, it makes all the difference in the world. If you find your talent at an early age there is nowhere to go but up from there. Everybody is talented in their own way and if you can find your talent at a young age, then the possibilities are endless.”
Gautier said the arts council would like to show people the talent that Harrodsburg has to offer just like other towns in Kentucky.
“Personally, I’m on the arts council because I think it's time that Harrodsburg embrace some different kinds of culture and make us more of a well-rounded community, (as) opposed to what we are known as — trying to change the stereotype.”
