What is the Art Hop?

What started with humble beginnings as a small neighborhood gathering has blossomed into one of the most important visual arts events in the region-- the South End Art Hop, sponsored and produced by the South End Arts and Business Association in Burlington. This year the event celebrates its thirteenth anniversary showcasing some of the best-known visual artists in the state, as well as many emerging artists in the area. The Art Hop is not only a traditional art opening, but rather an opening of an entire part of the city and its businesses to celebrate the visual and performing arts. This weekend embodies the mission of the South End Arts and Business Association; the enhancement of the creative economy, and the fusion of culture and commerce.

What can you expect: Dozens of artists in the South End open their doors and invite everyone to see what they do and how they do it. This is an opportunity to enjoy viewing art in many of the creative businesses in an area of special historic interest. Another highlight is the series of exhibitions in businesses which become temporary galleries and in alternative spaces throughout the South End.

Friday's events include free music at the celebration, a silent auction, food, and fun, in addition to the nearly 400 artists displaying their work. On Saturday, in addition to the art, there are many demonstrations and workshops for the entire family.

This year's 13th Annual Art Hop will again have outdoor sculpture on display throughout the area, on Flynn Ave, Pine Street, etc. This addition will be judged and awarded separately from the 2-dimensional work. The Program Guide will give a complete listing of sculpture, open studios, artists and their business location, and information about The South End Arts and Business Association (SEABA).

Come discover and experience the vitality in the eclectic and historic South End.

What people are saying about the 2004 Art Hop:

Listen to Vermont Public Radio's news interview about the Art Hop: http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/vpr/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=683098

Here's a comment from one visitor: The South End Art Hop ... what a marvelous opportunity to discover all those typically unknown nooks and crannies filled with wondrous productions ... alleyways and backlanes, never given a second thought when zooming along Battery, Pine or Flynn, leading to fascinating studios and spaces inhabited by creative types with intriguing stories about how all this 'stuff' comes into existence. It's a chance to savor the bohemian life, if only for a couple of days.