New name, new game: Rebranded art fair to drive energy in downtown Perrysburg

When Kelly and Kelly Chalfant decided to focus their lenses on art fairs this year, it was fitting that the Perrysburg couple — yes, both their names are Kelly — would have their photographs accepted into the inaugural Perrysburg Hearts the Arts art fair.

The rebranded event is replacing the Levis Commons Fine Art Fair, which had a 19-year run. The Guild of Artists and Artisans, in partnership with Visit Perrysburg, is presenting the arts fair from Friday through Sunday in downtown Perrysburg.

“Our decision to relocate the art fair and rebrand it as the Perrysburg Hearts the Arts fair to downtown Perrysburg was driven by the desire to bring more energy and activity to the event,” said Karen Delhey, executive director of The Guild of Artists and Artisans.

“The historic downtown provides a vibrant and dynamic setting reminiscent of successful events like the Ann Arbor Art Fair,” she said. “This new location will enhance attendees' experience and foster a thriving environment for artists and local businesses.”

Delhey said Visit Perrysburg has been instrumental in positioning the downtown as a premier destination and is excited about the potential of the art fair to become a cornerstone of the community.

“We are grateful for the beautiful years at Levis Commons and look forward to a bright future downtown,” she said.

More than 80 jury-selected artists and artisans from 11 states will exhibit jewelry, ceramics, painting, fiber, and photography.

“We are absolutely thrilled to host Hearts the Arts in downtown Perrysburg,” said Joshua Johnson, executive director of Visit Perrysburg. “This event not only highlights the incredible talent of local and regional artists but also contributes to the economic growth of Perrysburg.”

The free event, which is expected to draw 10,000 to 20,000 visitors, also will feature food trucks, kids activities, and 12 live music acts, with Sanctus Real as the Saturday night headliner.

“We are new to the fine art fair scene. This is only our second juried event,” said Mrs. Chalfant, who previously participated in the 2024 Crosby Festival of the Arts in June.

The two photographers also will be participating in the upcoming Black Swamp Arts Festival in Bowling Green in September. The husband and wife predominantly exhibit landscape images from their favorite places — Ohio, Florida, and Ireland — as well as from the misty fields of Gettysburg.

“Art is so personal. I think images that evoke emotions, a favorite memory perhaps, resonate with visitors,” said Mrs. Chalfant, who won a best of show award at the Photo Arts Club of Toledo's annual photography contest this past spring.

Another photographer, Rick Deal of Strongsville, Ohio, agrees that images engaging a memory have the most meaning with people viewing his work, which this summer will include photos taken during April's solar eclipse.

Water and skies are an undercurrent in much of Deal’s work. Day 8 is a cleverly named photo of the moon.

“The images that are the most popular are the ones that the viewer can make a connection with. It sparks a memory, or creates an emotion,” said Deal, who has participated in the art shows at Levis Commons, where he feels his art has been appreciated for the past two years.

“The people in Perrysburg and surrounding area have supported me and seem to appreciate my art,” said Deal, who has several new pieces he is excited to introduce, including some photos taken in the Smoky Mountains last fall, with one titled “Fall"ing in Love. The viewers of my images often comment on how they feel they are drawn into the image, like they could walk into the image.”

And his interactions with people viewing his art elicit lively conversations.

“I have several pieces that people want to hear the story behind it,” he said, adding people even want to know why he chose a particular angle.

Photographer Paul Christopher James, of Ann Arbor, said he is looking forward to this new event by the Guild, with its reputation for well-organized shows.

“Although this is the first time this show is being held, the residents of Perrysburg are known for their support of interesting downtown shops and boutiques in its wonderful historic downtown, making for a winning combination,” said James, who will be showcasing his landscape photography with a blend of architecture.

“These types of images capture the beauty of the great outdoors and the wonderful historic buildings that adorn the landscape,” he said. “By using ambient light and strong composition, I am able to capture moments in time at unique locations.”

Sun Burst - Mesa Arch is a vibrant example of a landscape image popping with color and light. James says he enjoys capturing moments in time to share with a populace that is often too hurried to stope and take notice of an ephemeral minute that shines with beauty.

There are more photographers participating in the show, as well as those occupying unique niches including a digital artist from Brecksville, Ohio, a glass artist from West Bend, Wisc., and leather artists Brigit and Brett Kowalczyk, from Delaware, Ohio.