58th edition of “Art by the River” showcases local talent and community spirit

by Garrett Fodor

Tents popped up like wildflowers along the bank of the Detroit River at Fort Malden this weekend, as Art by the River transformed the historic grounds into a lively maze of creativity, conversation, and small-town charm.

  This past weekend, thousands flocked to the historic and picturesque Amherstburg waterfront along Fort Malden for the 58th edition of “Art by the River.” Hosted by the Gibson Gallery, 180 vendors lined the grounds, showcasing their talents and wares, ranging from photography and paintings to pottery, home goods, clothing, and food.

  Entertainment was also on hand. From live musicians to entertainers, there was something for everyone.

  “We started Art by the River way back in 1967 as a part of the Centennial, and it was quite small then, and each year it has grown since, really becoming a staple to the community and the region,” Liz Campbell, Secretary/Treasurer for the Gibson Gallery, explained.  

“It has a family feel to it. I was talking to a vendor who has been with us for 30-years, now his children are here helping him out. Beside him was another vendor who had been in that spot for 20-years, and they knew each other quite well. It’s a good spot to connect and showcase their art.” 

  One of the highlights for Campbell and many of the passersby is the plein air artists, who are scattered throughout the grounds over the course of the weekend. They showcase their talents as they capture picturesque scenes in front of them and around the festival, turning a blank canvas into a moment in time.

  Campbell is also thankful to the community for their continued support of the festival, noting the generosity of the sponsors who helped to expand the offerings and programs for this year’s edition. New this year was a shuttle service providing transportation to and from the grounds over the weekend, along with an additional slate of children's activities over the two days.

  Additionally, she noted that there were more than 100 volunteers who helped in various roles over the weekend to ensure the event went off without a hitch.

  “It's just amazing, everybody looks like they're having a good time, enjoying what they're seeing, buying different things,” Campbell said. “The way people come out over the weekend, it tells us that we're doing something right. We're keeping it friendly and affordable, and it is something for the whole family to do. Amherstburg is a great place to be, with always something going on, rich with culture, history, and art.

  Art by the River is the Gibson Gallery’s primary fundraiser, supporting the non-profit’s ongoing work in the community and upkeep of the building. Housed in a historic 1896 railway station, the gallery is open to the public free of charge and is run entirely by dedicated volunteers and board members.

  It offers a range of art and craft classes for children and adults, and provides local artists with opportunities to exhibit their work. To learn more about the Gibson Gallery, its guilds, or upcoming classes, visit gibsonartgallery.com.