The program has been at capacity for artists since 2006, when a waiting list was created.

The number of available lampposts in town and the hanging space in the Waterfowl Festival Building has held the number of participants to 44.

History

The Arts In Easton Banner Program is the work of the Avalon Foundation and is designed to help promote local artists, civic pride and Easton as an arts destination. All banners are auctioned with proceeds benefiting local artists and the Avalon Foundation.

The Arts In Easton Banner Program was initiated in 2002. Al Bond, Easton’s Economic Development Director at the time, was searching for a visible public art venture to encourage local artists and to help brand Easton as an arts town. Bond researched outdoor art endeavors in other areas across the country and found successful three dimensional events. Bond recalled the lampposts throughout downtown Easton and then thought of hanging original artwork from them for the public to appreciate. The result is an innovative and growing promotion of the region’s vibrant arts community.

Former local artist, Joe Mayer, was a central figure to Bond’s quest for a public art venture and in the initiation of the Arts In Easton Banner Program. Mayer tested the feasibility of displaying original paintings outside in the elements and worked with local artists encouraging their support.

The program has grown each year. Based on the crowds at the 2007 banner auction held in the Academy Art Museum, organizers and the Avalon Foundation moved the 2008 event to the Waterfowl Festival Building and added additional viewing hours to help keep up with demand as the event grows in popularity. The results of this move in venue were fantastic. The larger space made it easier to accommodate both the banners and auction attendees in a roomier, more exciting and interactive setting.

The program has been at capacity for artists since 2006, when a waiting list was created. The number of available lampposts in town and the hanging space in the Waterfowl Festival Building has held the number of participants to 44. A waiting list link to artists’ page allows for interested artists to participate on a rotational basis.

In 2011, pre-auction online bidding was added.

Each year on the second Saturday in December the banners are auctioned at an exhilarating, entertaining event. This event has become a tradition for many as it has been described as one of the “most happening events in town.” The banners are hung for a marvelous exhibit of the special pieces of original art that have graced the town for six months. This is an opportunity to view all of the brilliant pieces up close, to enjoy a complimentary bar, hors d’oeuvres and music and to have the opportunity to purchase your favorites. Most of the artists attend the event offering a great opportunity to talk shop with auction attendees.

The banners are hung the day before the auction in the Waterfowl Festival Building to allow the public an opportunity to preview them in advance.

The Arts In Easton Banner Program has featured and sold distinctive works from nearly 100 artists. The artists who participate are representative of the hundreds of artists working in the community. Whether amateur or professional, their work adds depth to the experience and enjoyment of this charming small town.