With the wild excitement of our show weekend over, Evergreen Park going back to quiet serenity, a word of thanks has to be said to everyone involved in making Art in the Wilds so magical in 2019. Not only was the weather as great as anyone could ask for, but all the efforts put in made it a true frolic in the park.

First, to all our sponsors, all those that donated, you have our utmost gratitude for keeping this program funded each and every year. Your generosity can never be overstated. Every cent gets poured into making Art in the Wilds better each year.

Second, to the artists! It wouldn't be an art show without art and this year's turnout had some of the best examples of that I've seen so far. Not only was the art great, the booths were beautifully arranged. With a few unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances switching the roster out last minute, those artists ready and raring to go to fill booths can't be thanked enough. For the others that sadly couldn't make it this year, we sincerely wish you all the best. Most importantly, we hope to see everyone make a return visit!

Lastly, but not least(ly), to all the volunteers that donated time, talent and energy, you are the best! All those hands work together to mold a lump of resources into a functioning show. Everyone that cleaned up, that patrolled, that promoted, that loaned some muscle, that shared brain power, that offered food and water; everyone that stepped forward with "Yes, I can do that" wearing a smile on their face, on behalf of Art in the Wilds I say, "Thank you!"

What a weekend! Along with the absolutely brilliant weather that was kind enough to remain picturesque right until Monday, the show this year was fantastic. I hope everyone that visited us here in Kane enjoyed Art in the Wilds as much as we did (as much as the charming gentleman from Cleveland there!).

After the foul week leading up to the show, even with the remnants of the big mud puddle Evergreen Park was before hand, Saturday morning hit with a big breath of fresh air and warm sunshine. Nature's splendor surrounded the show while gorgeous art inspired by nature filled eager, wide eyes. I don't know about the rest of you, but I didn't have deep enough pockets to throw at this year's excellent artists to claim a piece of their talents.

This year we recognized our four award winners:

Best of Show 3D - Lana Heckendorn with her beautiful porcelain pottery
Best of Show 2D - Jack Paluh with his plein air paintings

And our two Awards of Excellence - Dan Sullivan with his glass-work jewelry and Lawrence Downey with his fine art photography.

Congratulations to all four artists!

In addition to the award winners, I would like to shine light on two artists new to the show this year; two artists that had visitors buzzing around their tents and exclaiming about their work all over the park.

Number one, Earl Martz! When I first saw pictures of his art and read the description, it didn't prepare me in the slightest when I finally saw them with my own two eyes. It really is a case of 3D not translating completely to 2D. A photograph does not do these gorgeous carvings justice. It was quite the task getting near enough to get a picture, there were so many people crowding his tent.

Number two, Carol McDonald! From what I witnessed and the way people were 'ooing' and 'ahhing' whenever they peered inside this particular tent, people were genuinely charmed by the artist's medium and then further lured by the incredible quality and detail in the art itself. Adults and children alike had to step in wide-eyed and grinning as they looked over every piece. Also, whichever lucky person purchased that prized giraffe, you were the envy of many visitors this weekend!

There will be a larger 'thank you' coming soon to all those that participated in this year's show though I personally want to thank everyone I met for being kind while I was awkward. You're all fantastic!

It's here! Art's here. Alumi are here. Good weather is finally here.

It's the last day of the countdown. Come tomorrow morning, at 10 AM, Art in the Wilds will be open! Artists will be loaded into white tents with works for sale of all kinds of mediums. Keep on the lookout for Megan Gillis, Leslie Halaby-Moore, Lana Heckendorn, Rocky Holland, Peggy Houser, Stacie Johnson-Leske, Gregg Kristophel, Donna Little, LeAnne Marquis, Earl Martz, Caelin McDaniel, Carol McDonald, Deborah Moyer, Susan Murphy, Jack Northrop, Jack Paluh, Ellen Paquette, Francia Patti, Larry Schneider, Kathleen Schnell, Dan Sullivan, Robert Vrboncic, Curt Weinhold, Megan Whitten, Dave Zaborowski, Evian Zukas-Oguz, and more!

Come on by for the art, for the nature, for the food and the hospitality. We're all looking forward to seeing old friends and new friends visiting Art in the Wilds this weekend. Meet you there!