While it used to be a sign of summer, the Salem Art Fair is now a figure of fall.
“We hope that this year’s footprint and being in September is the long-term plan,” Executive Director Matthew Boulay.
In addition to the date change, there are a few other adjustments this year noted Matthew.
Hours are being extended. “We are starting an hour earlier.” Artist booths will now open at 9 a.m. all three days. Artists will also have the option to close down earlier if they want. “It’s a long day for the artist, but usually they want to stay open if it's good weather and there are lots of visitors.”
“We’re moving the main stage to the south end of the pasture. This helps create one unified event with art, music and food,” he said. “We also have a wine court that’s new this year, featuring six vineyards. That’s something we definitely hope to grow if there is interest.”
Additionally, there will no longer be a separate stage for cultural performances.
“We merged the cultural stage and the main stage. We want the cultural performers to have access to the main stage, to be part of the main show not on a secondary stage. We don’t want to split the audience. It’s one big stage with the best folks up there.”
While some people may not like that darkness comes earlier as we get closer to winter, Art Fair organizers are taking advantage of the night sky with a drone and laser show in the evening. As this is the fair’s 75th anniversary, there will be 75 drones. “They dance in the sky. It’s going to be a lot of fun. ”
2024 Salem Art Fair poster by Sophie Barlow
The poster for this year’s art fair was designed by Sophie Barlow. Born and raised in Salem, Sophie has been a long-time attendee of the annual event. She has fond memories of watching dance performances (specifically Classic Tap) and participating in craft activities.
“I still have ones I made at Art Fair,” she recalls.
After graduating from South Salem High School in 2018, Sophie moved to Eugene where she attended the University of Oregon. Upon completing her Bachelor of Arts, she returned to Salem.
When she saw the call for artists, she jumped at the opportunity and submitted her portfolio.
“We don’t do a call every year,” said Matthew. This year, it was very intentional. “We wanted to democratize the process.”
As a graphic designer for CBTWO Architects, Sophie’s daily work is in corporate design. But her passion is illustration. She recently illustrated a book, “Oakley, Mostly Good,” by local musician Kristen Grainger. And as a digital artist, the poster was a prime platform for her to explore and share her skills.
“I was excited when I got the call,” Sophie said. “My parents are Art Fair poster collectors.”
“We were really taken by her aesthetic — kind of playful and very local. She clearly knew the part. And we got to know her and her personal story, having grown up going to the Art Fair and that is pretty cool,” added Matthew.
Sophie was given free rein, but the idea of an illustrated map was mentioned and stuck. And her experience with attending the event over the years paid off.
“I tried to include some special things, like the old crooked house…and some Easter eggs,” Sophie said.
What Easter eggs? Look and you’ll see. And if you need a little bit of help, find Sophie. She’ll be at her booth with prints and stickers, tote bags, paintings, and yes, the book she recently illustrated.
Opening Night Party
Featuring dinner by La Jitana and live music by vocalist Halie Loren
6:30 to 9 p.m. Sep 12 | salemartfair.org | $40-$45
This year’s headlining performers are:
Friday
The Sugar Beets, 8:30 to 10 p.m.
Sky Lites Dron Show, 9:50 to 10:10 p.m.
Saturday
The Daddies (formerly known as The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies), 8:30 to 10 p.m.
Sunday
Willamette Valley Pipes and Drums, 4:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
For all your Salem Art Fair & Festival info visit salemartfair.org
Sep 13-15 | salemartfair.org | Free-$24.65