ARTISTS, ARTISANS AND VENDORS EVENT REGISTRATION
Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission Events 2025
Art & About: Jim White Memorial Paint Out May 30 - June 4, 2025
Art & About: Jim White Memorial Paint-out - Throughout Waterville – May 30 through June 4 - artists choose their own locations to paint en plein air (outdoors) and the public is invited to watch the artists in action. Paintings are then displayed at Waterville Library as part of the new AW Inspiration Art Exhibit until July 31.
The event is named to honor local artist, Jim White. Jim, a very talented artist who always painted in this event, passed away on February 10, 2017. A commercial artist by trade, Jim enjoyed creating landscapes and portraits in both oil paint and charcoal. He won many awards for his work over the years including first place and People’s Choice awards at past Art & About events. During the Paint Out he often encouraged on-looking children to take his brush and add some color to his painting. Many of his paintings sport children’s signatures next to his own.
Questions - email Lisa at lisaexner23@gmail.com
AW Inspiration Art Exhibit June 4 - July 24, 2025
AW Inspiration art exhibit is being held June 5 through July 31 at the Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville, Ohio.
The exhibit contains a collection of 60 pieces of art created by talented local artists. Be sure to stop in the Waterville Library during regular business hours to see all the beautiful work.
Eats & Beats Food Truck Tuesdays in June 10, July 8 & August 12, 2025
The Eats & Beats Food Truck Tuesdays will be held once a month in June, July and August of 2025 in Conrad Park (Michigan Ave, Waterville). This family-friendly event totally organized by the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission and sponsored by the City of Waterville There was no admission fee to attend.
Live music is provided by the incredible local groups in Conrad Park’s gazebo.
Free kids’ art workshops are led by local artist/teachers.
8 different food trucks are featured at each event.
Many talented artisan vendors sold their arts and crafts.
June 10 - 5:30 - 8:00
o 8 food trucks – Beastro Burger, Big Mealz on Wheelz, Deet’s BBQ, Detroit Mini Donuts, Lyle’s Crepes, Susie Lynne’s Lemonde, Trip N’ Biscuits, Uncle Louie’s
o Live music by DAZE56 (live musical entertainment in park gazebo) 56DAZE is Ohio and Michigan's ultimate event party band. The band offers an amazing performance to keep people dancing and singing along. 56DAZE is one of the top working event bands in the Midwest and Great Lakes Region.
o Free kids’ taught by local art educator – Liz Schooner
o Craft and artisan vendors booths
o Playground for the kids
July 8 - 5:30 - 8:00
o 8 food trucks – Beastro Burger, Big Mealz on Wheelz, Deet’s BBQ, Detroit Mini Donuts, Lyle’s Crepes, Susie Lynne’s Lemonde, Trip N’ Biscuits, Uncle Louie’s
o Live music by North of Nashville (live musical entertainment in park gazebo) North of Nashville is a premier country band out of Northwest Ohio. The musicians bring several years of experience to the table, delivering a top notch performance and a set list that will bring a smile to any country music fan.
o Free kids’ taught by local art educator, Liz Schooner
o Craft and artisan vendors booths
o Playground for the kids
August 12 - 5:30 - 8:00
o 8 food trucks – Beastro Burger, Big Mealz on Wheelz, Deet’s BBQ, Detroit Mini Donuts, Lyle’s Crepes, Susie Lynne’s Lemonde, Trip N’ Biscuits, Uncle Louie’s
o Live music by Grape Smugglers (live musical entertainment in park gazebo). This unique band covers many genres of music, including blues, rock, vintage R&B and soul, and a pinch of country. These seasoned musicians incorporate riveting solos into their performances making their concerts memorable and keeping their fan base growing. Members of The Grape Smugglers are Dave Stella (guitar, vocals), Pat McDonagh (guitar, vocals), Bernie Greenberg (bass, vocals, more bass), Tim Tiderman (keyboards, vocals, jokes), Chuck Caswell (drums), Bob Manley (sax, flute), John Grafing (trumpet), and Bob Hoff (trombone).
o Free kids’ taught by local art educator, Claire Puppos
o Craft and artisan vendors booths
o Playground for the kids
Art/Craft Vendors & Non-profits only - This is a free event, but pre-registration is requested. Text Lisa at 419-378-0935 or email Lisa at lisaexner23@gmail.com
Anthony Wayne Area Studio Hop - Sept. 6, 2025 - New!
The Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission is teaming up with the Anthony Wayne Art Loop to present the Studio Hop is a self-guided tour in which the public can visit participating artists’ studios, learn about their process, and purchase artwork directly from the creators. A map of all participating studios will be provided to help guide visitors throughout the event. This event is designed to celebrate local talent and create meaningful connections between artists and their audience.
Artists, Artisan & Crafters at Roche De Boeuf Festival - Sept. 27, 2025
The annual Waterville Roche de Boeuf Festival is scheduled for September 27, 2025. The Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission is sponsoring the artists’ section again this year. The artists’ section always receives very positive feedback from festival goers. We are working to organize and promote a very successful Rue des Artistes (Street of Artists) again this year.
The Roche de Boeuf Festival organized by the Waterville Chamber of Commerce will be held on September 27 in downtown Waterville from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
With a big focus on the arts, this year’s festival will feature a very special artists’ area located on
N. 2nd St. Visitors to the festival will have a chance to view, enjoy and purchase the work of 30 local artisans. This art section named, Rue des Artistes, is organized by the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission.
Students of the Month Award Program - Oct. - May, 2025
October through May each school year - This program is designed to recognize outstanding visual art and performing arts/music students from AWHS. Through this program, AWAAC wishes to encourage and support visual and performing arts students in all their endeavors. Selected by AW teachers, students receive awards from AWAAC, gift cards from local businesses and recognition in AWAAC publications.
Boo to Do Halloween 2025
Held in downtown Waterville – Date to be determined - Organized by Waterville Chamber of Commerce - local businesses and organizations give out treats to kids. AWAAC is always on hand to pass out treats and admire the kids' costumes. Great family event!
more events coming soon
Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission is in the process of planning additional events and activities for 2025. Information relating to these events will be posted soon.
