The651.com

Yes, yes. we know. This is the third Grand Old Day post on the651.com this week. BUT, before ya jump the gun and go back to Googling yourself, know that we’re just here to make sure you have everything you need to have a great time this weekend! And since I’m the arts and culture writer we thought it appropriate to toss in a little art-related Grand Old Day material for ya.

Did you know Grand Old Day has its own Art District that runs from Hamline, all the way up to Snelling? It totally does! And for those of you familiar with that stretch of road, you know that’s A LOT of street. And all dedicated to artsy coolness? Color us impressed. Check out the all-day Art Fair, sponsored by the art-lovin’ folks over at Lavender Magazine, who’ve helped wrangle together scads of amazing local and regional art vendors who will be on hand to entice you with their wares. See (and buy) paintings, sculpture, bric-a-brac, jewelry and much more. In addition, you’ll be treated to a display of Art Cars — you know, the zany, motorized art pieces that you see every once in awhile and say “What the…?” Get an up close peek; who knows? You may very well be inspired to jazz up your own ride! The Art Cars will also participate in the parade starting at Cleveland & Grand at 10am.

Also on the sched is the Walker Art Center & mnartists.org Open Field Drawing activity. Art supplies are provided so the public can join forces with local artists to create a collaborative art piece!  The center of the tables will contain the working pool of pieces. Start a new drawing, slide it back into pool, pass it around, alter, edit and amend it until the group declares it complete. The end result could be amazing, or it could be scary — you won’t know unless you try! A great activity for kids and adults alike. ArtStart Projects will also be on hand for you to make your own take-home art project. Cool, eh?

Oh, and don’t forget to stop into Grand Ave’s staple art supply store, Wet Paint, to stock up on fun items to keep the art-making going past Sunday!

The Grand Old Day Art District is located on Grand Ave between Hamline & Snelling. The event runs from 8am-5pm on Sunday, June 6th and is free and open to the public. For more info visit www.grandave.com.