This 22nd annual juried fine arts festival is held at Styron Square in the heart of Port Warwick in Newport News. The outdoor venue is often described as 'walking through an outdoor art gallery.' The festival searches for qualified artists throughout the country who continually challenge themselves to achieve a higher artistic level in both subject matter and technique. The Port Warwick Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, organizes the show and encourages emerging and culturally diverse artists to participate.
No more than 120 artists are accepted through rolling admission. Prior-year award-winning artists are jury-exempt. The festival features cash awards in 14 categories, live entertainment, family and children's activities, and food trucks.
Accepted media: ceramics, drawing and graphics, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, sculpture (large and small), paintings, photography, printmaking, wood, and other original work. All pieces must be original and signed. Works produced with commercial kits, molds, patterns, or prefabricated forms are not permitted. Photography must be limited-edition prints not exceeding 250 prints of any single image.
Booth fees: $350 for a 10x10 space, $650 for a double booth. The festival provides 24-hour security, free program and artist listing, discounted hotel rates, assistance with load-in and load-out, booth sitters, complimentary lunch both days, a VIP dinner with entertainment on Saturday, and a champagne brunch on Sunday during the awards ceremony.