Rain fails to dampen Banfield Art Crawl spirit

A young participant brings a treasured stuffed friend in for a checkup at the Teddy Bear Medical Clinic during last year’s Kiwanis Teddy Bear Picnic in Burford. The annual family-friendly event returns June 7 with games, entertainment, contests and activities for children across Brant County.

Rubyyy Jones

Paris Independent Cultural Correspondent

Banfield Art Crawl returned this past weekend, braving torrential rain and bringing plenty of colour to an otherwise grey day. With 50 talented artists and creators showcasing and selling their work, the damp weather did little to dampen the spirits of guests, who arrived in raincoats with umbrellas to browse and shop. Organizers say visitors travelled from Toronto, Guelph, Niagara and London to take part in the fourth annual event.

Spread across seven streets in the Banfield neighbourhood, the event is typically held outdoors with tents, tables and displays set up in driveways, on lawns and beneath the trees. This year, however, relentless rain pushed much of the event indoors, onto porches and into garages and artists’ homes — but everyone pivoted with flair.

I spoke with Banfield Art Crawl organizer and artist Jeanette Obbink about the event and she shared her reflections on the day. “The day went very well, despite the nasty weather and we had about a hundred people braving the rain, which resulted in lovely visits, with a lot of positive feedback to the event, including some sales.” 

Bracing for lower turnout, the artists were in remarkably good spirits, and pleasantly surprised by the number of visitors. Paris artist Tony Churchill, who showcasaed his work on Banfield Street, shared that “even though it was a rainy Saturday, it was great to see people braving the weather to come out and talk about art. Many were very proud of the fact that there were so many creatives in one small town.” 

Brant artist Lisa Franklin showcased on Jane Street and spoke of the importance of cultural events like this one, specifically, for the vendors. “Events like the Banfield Art Crawl are so important. Professional artists need to uphold large bodies of works and often pay out of pocket to have art available to the public. Something that isn’t necessarily accessible to everyone. These events allow artists at any stage of their careers or joyful journey to connect with art enthusiasts and community members!”

The people that braved the weather loved the event, and lots of folks were posting their art purchases and happy rainy day selfies. “I can’t believe there are so many creative people in this neighborhood!” was a regular recurring comment. 

Banfield local Natalie Murdock was one of many who supported the crawl. “An event like this gives us a chance to see what’s artistically happening in the community. Wander through the beautiful area, explore backyard studios, and enjoy the opportunity to talk with artists who are truly passionate about their work. The Banfield Art Crawl is the perfect place to discover something new!”

Banfield Art Crawl organizer Jennifer Budd of Woolscapes, she shared her thoughts and gratitude post event. “I would like to offer huge gratitude for everyone who put on a raincoat, found an umbrella and donned their wellies on what was an atrocious day of weather to attend the 4th Annual Banfield Art Crawl. It was a very challenging day for all of the participants. To feel the love and support for what we do was uplifting.” It was an uplifting and inspiring day, proving mother nature doesn’t always get the last word! If you’re interested in reaching out to an artist, visit https://www.banfieldartcrawl.ca/about