The 30th anniversary of the Panoply Arts Festival is coming up April 27-29 this year and there will be so many fun things to enjoy at the festival throughout the weekend! This year, I am proud to volunteer on the First Dibs committee, Panoply’s annual art investors event on Friday night.
Exclusive Look
What makes this event unique? Art investors who attend First Dibs are allowed access into Panoply’s Art Marketplace before it opens to the public, giving you a chance to peruse the art for sale and mingle with artists prior to the crowds during the weekend.
“First Dibs is a celebration of art and community, while also giving art enthusiasts a chance to have a private experience at Panoply’s Art Marketplace before the public,” says Donna Corbett, First Dibs chair.
Our Digital Media Wizard Larkin and blogger Bronwen will be attending First Dibs for Our Valley Events and bringing you an exclusive look. Follow Our Valley Events on Twitter and Facebook to catch all the action.
How It Works
Tickets start at $25, which includes complimentary beer, wine, light hors d’oeuvres and access to the Marketplace. Plus, different ticket levels also contain added benefits like weekend VIP passes and art credits – so you’re supporting The Arts Council while also buying credits to spend all weekend. Click here to see the different ticket levels and what each includes.
“Plus, don’t forget that First Dibs ticket buyers at all levels also enjoy access back to the Summit at 9 p.m. for the fireworks display,” says Corbett.
The Marketplace
The Panoply Art Marketplace offers an eclectic blend of artisans from across the nation.
You’ll find works in a variety of mediums including:
- Clay
- Drawing
- Fiber
- Glass
- Jewelry
- Mixed media
- Painting
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
- Wood
- Bonsai and more!
Event Details
Date: Friday, April 27
Time: 5-9pm
Location: The Summit at Big Spring & Monroe Street Bridge
Cost: Varies. Click here to make your reservation or call the Arts Council office at 519-2787.
First Dibs Reception: 5-7 p.m.
The Summit at Big Spring, 8th Floor
100 Church Street
Exclusive Access to the Art Marketplace: 6-8 p.m.
Monroe Street Bridge
Overlooking Big Spring Park
Light hors d’oeuvres by Lyn’s Gracious Goodness.
Wine, beer and live music. Casual attire.
About the Author
Ashley Dinges is the Marketing & Development Director at Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. She is a Huntsville transplant from sunny San Jose, California, where she worked at the San Jose Mercury News newspaper. Previously, she worked at publications including the Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News. Her design, writing and editing work has been honored by organizations including the Society for News Design and the American Advertising Federation. A graduate of the University of Michigan, she is also a photographer, and was chosen as the 2009 Panoply Emerging Artist for her photography. In Huntsville, she volunteers her time by serving on the advisory boards for the Downtown Forty-Seven and the Historic Lowry House.
Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.
