Every year, leaders from around the community meet once a month over the course of nine months to strengthen and develop their leadership skills, as well as explore the resources Fayette County has to offer. The mission of “Leadership Fayette” is to strengthen the capacities of emerging and established organization and community leaders, by providing tools for networking as they think, learn and work together on their shared visions.

To put this learning into action, two groups were formed to accomplish a project of their own design. “Art on the Square” is a group/project of Leadership Fayette.

“From the beginning, our group had identified a need for more murals, color, artwork, etc., throughout the community. And so, our mission became: to create a local initiative that brings color to Washington Court House in the form of art,” said Chelsie Baker, City of Washington Court House Economic Development Director. “This event is a much smaller version of Franklinton’s Urban Scrawl.”

Artists will have the opportunity to paint on mural-sized canvases, which will later be weather-sealed, and permanently displayed within the community, ideally throughout the downtown.

“We liked the idea of creating an annual event that encourages the community to showcase its artistic and creative talent,” said Baker. “We need more events like this within our community.”

Art on the Square will be held on Saturday, Aug. 26 on the south end of Fayette Street, between Court and East streets. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. and the artists will begin painting at 10 a.m.

Art materials will be provided by Art on the Square staff, but artists are encouraged to bring their own supplies, if desired. All applicants must be at least 15 years of age to participate, and/or entering their freshman year of high school. There is no charge for this year’s event. Craft vendors are also invited to come out.

Pour Boys’ Brew House is also hosting an event that day, Brew Fest, beginning at noon on the north end of Fayette Street between Court and Market streets. There will be music, food, locally-crafted beer, and similarly-themed art vendors.

If you are interesting in participating as an artist or a vendor at Art on the Square, please contact Chelsie Baker at [email protected].