The Olympian - April 2011

Thumbs up: Arts Walk

The spring Arts Walk celebration was a huge success, capped off with an outstanding Procession of the Species along the streets of downtown Olympia. The fact that Saturday was the warmest day of the year, with the temperature climbing to 69 degrees, boosted the attendance to an estimated 30,000 spectators. About 3,000 people participated in the procession, which celebrated its 17th year. The 42nd Arts Walk celebration kicked off Friday evening with artisans displaying their work in 133 downtown locations — up from 127 last year. The incredible work, which ranged from metal work to photography, from hand-crafted items to oil paintings, was a remarkable display of the incredible talents of South Sound artists. At 9:30 p.m. Friday, the Luminary Procession was under way with beautiful luminary art, drumming and music. Entertainment drew huge crowds to the downtown business district. Many people were back Saturday as the art displays and entertainment continued. The late afternoon procession displayed the creativity and genius of participants who dressed as everything from a giant razor clam to a nimble spider and accompanying web. The drums accompanying the Samba Olywa dance troupe thundered in the chests of spectators who greeted entrants and their Octopus’ Garden theme with loud cheers. Procession and Arts Walk participants and spectators alike applauded this year’s event.