Instead of the sounds of traffic on Magnolia Avenue Saturday, Oct. 19, the street buzzed with laughter, animated discussions about art and enthusiastic praise for talent.
Nearly 60,000 people swarmed 19 blocks of Magnolia Avenue for ArtsGoggle.
ArtsGoggle was sponsored by the non-profit Near Southside INC. The event featured over 900 visual artists, 50 musical performances and a variety of artistic displays, along with food, drinks and entertainment for all.
Elizabeth Conley now owns a studio by her own name and came back to show off her art for another year at ArtsGoggle.
“I almost sold out of all my art last year,” she said. “It felt so good to have my art be supported by the community.”
Rachel Ridley, another returning artist in the neighboring booth enjoyed similar success.
“I had a booth here a few years ago that went really well, but I took a break to become an art teacher,” the Fort Worth artist and educator said. “I’m back this year because I really missed it and wanted to reconnect with the vibrant art conversations and community.”
There are even artists that focus on TCU art. One of these artists is Candy Baker, a 1982 graduate. Baker’s son also graduated from TCU in 2014.
“This legacy makes painting TCU-themed pieces especially meaningful to me,” Baker said. “Each stroke of my brush reflects my love for the university and its vibrant spirit. It’s not just about the art; it’s about celebrating the community and traditions that have shaped my life and my family.”
The artists invest a significant amount of time preparing for the event, and so do the behind-the-scenes members who make it all happen.
“This event is at the forefront of the revitalization efforts, with the creative community being a key factor in its success,” Mike Brennan, the president of Near Southside Inc., said. “It serves as the largest showcase of Fort Worth’s creative talent, complementing our other initiatives to promote redevelopment.”
The behind-the-scenes team also includes more than 250 volunteers.
“Every year I come to the ArtsGoggle festival but have never had the chance to volunteer until now,” Jennifer Eggleston, a volunteer block monitor, said. “I am always amazed at how the event is pulled off and how many people come out.”
ArtsGoggle attracted a crowd of more than 60,000 patrons, for the Near Southside neighborhood.
“Fort Worth is a great cultural hub and I love being around creative people and seeing their brilliance unfolded. This is such a unique way to enhance the art scene,” Lauren Bowie, a volunteer block monitor, said.
ArtsGoggle strives to create relaxed and inviting atmosphere that celebrates local talent and art appreciation in accordance with the ArtsGoggle website. As a non-juried festival, it offers emerging artists their first opportunity to showcase their work, alongside some well-known artists.
The event creates a welcoming environment for both emerging and established artists to showcase, sell, and discuss their work, all while transforming Magnolia Street into a vibrant space filled with people instead of cars.
