Spring is in the air and the festivities in Columbus are being unveiled.
On the first Saturday of every month, thousands flock to High Street for the Gallery Hop. The event in the Short North Arts District is a city tradition that dates back more than 20 years. It showcases new exhibits in the art galleries and is a social extravaganza.
"As the sun goes down, musicians and artists will come out; there's a lot of energy down here for the evening," Tim Baker, co-owner of Echoes Art and Antiques said.
Hopping from gallery to gallery, the art on display ranges from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted goods and jewelry. Exhibits have unique themes such as the color green, human forms and cartoons.
"There's always something new to see," Marianne Lannan, owner of The Lamp Shade said. "Once you've been down here, you'll want to come back."
For many local artists, the Gallery Hop is a chance to shine and show off their work. Whether it is the well-known or the emerging artists, everyone has an opportunity to share his or her piece with the countless people traversing through the galleries. Works from non-traditional artists within the community are also included. At Edward Jones, photographs from Bexley High School students will be on display.
"I love it. I have my business here because of the Gallery Hop," Baker said. "I like all the energy, the music and just the evening atmosphere."
Located at 24 E. Lincoln St., Echoes Art and Antiques will feature the work of beloved folklore painter Smoky Brown. A collection of his original paintings will be on sale.
For Ohio State students, the Gallery Hop is a chance to escape from the daily grind and see some new things. Rita Ostrova, a sophomore in art history, has made going to it a monthly ritual.
"It's different from the usual things you see everyday" Ostrova said. "It's something more unique, you're not going to find the exact same things anywhere else."
Aside from all the artwork, the Gallery Hop is filled with fun sights and sounds. Performers pack the overflowing sidewalks entertaining the large crowds. Musicians, dance troupes and even stilt walkers are just some of the acts lining the streets. Little boutiques offer stylish clothes as well as an assorted array of unique items for sale. Restaurants and bars stay open later, the colorful lights of the High Street arches illuminate the night and the atmosphere is celebratory and festive.
"I like the shops and the things they're selling - the more upscale luxury items that I can't afford but I like seeing and touching," Ostrova said. "It reminds me of something bigger and better and more cultured."
At The Lamp Shade, located at 990 N. High St., wearable art jewelry will be on display by local artist Tracy Van Niel. The trinkets are made with glass beads and semi-precious stones. Items like these are just some of the nifty things to see, so those looking for an enjoyable way to spend an evening with plenty of fun and entertainment should take a hop down to the Short North.
"Come for the time of your life, you won't be disappointed," Baker said.
Jeffy Mai can be reached at mai.9@osu.edu.
2008 Woodie Awards
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