Watermark Art Festival Formerly “Art in the Park, the festival had it’s beginnings in 1967.
The festival’s unique appeal lies in its comprehensive and diverse offerings. Over 100 artists and organizations are represented, showcasing a wide variety of hand-crafted items including woodwork, ceramics, jewelry, photography, metalworking, greeting cards, homemade preserves, soaps, stained glass, original paintings, and garden art. The food court and covered picnic area provide a delightful space for attendees to enjoy local cuisine while taking a break from the art and music.
One of the standout features of the festival is the integration of the Watermark Art Center itself. The center’s galleries, including the retail gallery SHOP 505, are open to the public during the festival, offering a chance to view and purchase art from local and regional artists. The Creative Zone, with its art activities and demonstrations, adds an interactive layer to the event, making it accessible and engaging for all ages.
Spoken Word Series
Our support of the literary arts features local and regional authors sharing and teaching from their latest work.
Watermark Art Center’s Spoken Word Series celebrates the literary arts with Poetry Slams, live Storytelling, hosting regional authors to lead readings and spoken word workshops. We partner with other organizations to bring distant authors to our region.
It’s Only Clay
The It’s Only Clay (IOC) exhibit is a juried ceramics competition focusing on, and dedicated to, functional clay vessels. Each submission for IOC is judged in four areas: function, form/aesthetic, craftsmanship, and surface design.
IOC features a lecture and workshop by the guest artist, and a juried exhibition of functional ceramics at Watermark Art Center. “It’s Only Clay” event is a partnership between the Watermark Art Center and Bemidji State University Department of Technology Art and Design.
Bi-Annual Members Show
The Members Show is just one of the ways we express our gratitude for those who support us throughout the year! It’s a great way to connect and share your passion for art – whether you create it or collect it. Free application to participate in the Members Show is just one of the benefits you receive when you join the Watermark Art Center!Beginning in 2020, the Show is held alternate years.
