In the heart of Syracuse’s Strathmore neighborhood, the annual Art on the Porches festival celebrated its 22nd edition on Ruskin Avenue’s picturesque, tree-lined streets. The event, renowned for showcasing local artistic talent, took a new turn this year by introducing painting and drawing workshops for the first time.
Children, armed with paintbrushes and surrounded by easels, eagerly painted scenes of the historic homes that line Ruskin Avenue. “This street and its architecture are integral to the festival,” noted Andrea Farrow, coordinator of the kids’ area for the Greater Strathmore Neighborhood Association. “We wanted to incorporate this element into the children’s art activities, and it’s been a hit.”
The festival, which has become a beloved tradition in the community, featured a vibrant mix of live music, food trucks, and diverse artistic displays. Attendees had the opportunity to explore an array of artistic mediums, from painting and photography to jewelry and wood burning.
This year, Art on the Porches expanded its offerings with three one-hour painting and drawing workshops. These sessions, led by local artists and sponsored by The Art Store, provided attendees with hands-on experience in portrait drawing and still-life painting. The kids’ area also featured a pottery workshop designed to engage younger participants in the artistic process.
Katie Mulligan, an MFA candidate in illustration at Syracuse University, not only showcased her portrait work but also led one of the drawing workshops. When developing her workshop curriculum, Mulligan emphasized accessibility to ensure that all participants could benefit from the experience.
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