Bath Church shares regional artists’ work at annual arts festival

by Laura Bednar

The Bath Church, United Church of Christ held its 23rd annual Epiphany Arts Festival featuring 172 artists and 342 pieces of artwork.

Former Bath Church UCC Minister Greg Turner introduced the concept for the show, and it was held in the church’s Fellowship Hall for the first five years of existence before moving to the newly built sanctuary 19 years ago.

One of the festival coordinators, Shirley Taylor, said the goal of the show is to “celebrate the joy that artists bring into our lives.”

Taylor, along with other event coordinators, 25 Epiphany Arts committee members and volunteers, hang the art pieces and ensure the festival runs smoothly.

Artists display their pieces, many of which are for sale, at no cost and receive all profits from their art sales. Artwork ranges from paintings and quilts to woodcarvings and digital drawings.

The title, “Epiphany Arts Festival,” is in homage to the Christian season of Epiphany, in which the three wise men brought gifts to the baby Jesus at Christmas. According to the festival’s statement of purpose, “It is in this special time that the church seeks to celebrate the artists among us who offer their insights and talents to the world.”

The festival opened with a gala on Jan. 21 and closed, per tradition, with a concert by the Bath Church choir, organists and other musicians on Feb. 19.

Taylor said 75 art pieces had sold as of Feb. 15, and she anticipated a total of 90 to be sold by the show’s closing. Artists are found through other art shows and many hear about it through word of mouth. “Artists don’t have enough venues to show their work,” said Taylor. Those interested in being part of next year’s show should contact Bath Church at 330-666-3520. ∞