ClydeFEST, the annual celebration of local “critter artist” Clyde Jones that has been going for nearly two decades, is coming back for 2020 — but in a slightly different way than usual.

The Chatham Arts Council’s 18th annual ClydeFEST old-school folk arts carnival is taking a creative spin this year to keep the community safe amid COVID-19. “ClydeFEST-to-Go” will take the place of this year’s event.

The Chatham Arts Council will be placing cedar critter cut-outs — along with a few art supplies — at two locations in the county, which are due to remain open: Chatham Marketplace in Pittsboro and Oasis Market in Siler City. Community members are encouraged to “pick up their critter on their essential weekly grocery runs (April 18-25) and embellish it with paint, markers, glitter – anything to make a unique piece of art,” according to the event announcement. ClydeFEST-to-Go will then conclude on April 25 when participants post photos of their critters via social media under the #ClydeFestToGo.

“Social distancing is the best thing we can do right now, and in this circumstance of being ‘alone together,’ creative expression can be hugely helpful for kids and their grown-ups,” explained Cheryl Chamblee, Executive Director of the Chatham Arts Council, in a press release. “ClydeFEST-to-Go allows us to bring the spirit of ClydeFEST to Chatham families in a unique way, but also, in a manner that will continue to keep our community safe.”

The unique folk art of Clyde Jones has been a community staple for many years, and as ClydeFEST continues, the Chatham Arts Council hopes to preserve a sense of excitement about expression and folk art fun in our neighborhoods.

“Our hope is that ClydeFEST-to-Go will bring a little cheer during a time of global uncertainty,” said Chamblee.

 

 

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