Upcoming Boston Arts Festival Presents More Than 60 Local Artists, Including JP's Zanger

Boston's vibrant local arts scene will be on display next weekend, when dozens of Boston-based contemporary artists and several performances will be on display as part of the 10th annual (ähts): Boston Arts Festival. 

A specially designed artists village located at the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park (105 Atlantic Ave.) on Sept. 8 and 9 will showcase more than 60 local visual and contemporary artists. Among the Jamaica Plain artists exhibiting will be .

See here for the full list of participating artists. 

“Boston’s vibrant arts and cultural sector is unique and each year we look forward to celebrating the Boston arts scene and its exceptional contribution to the social fabric of our great city," said Mayor Thomas Menino. "Head down to the waterfront and join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary of Ahts and the vast talent and work of our local arts community at the idyllic Christopher Columbus Park."

One of the most exciting displays will be a sculptural installation by Boston artist Caroline Aragón. The project, called Ripples, is an exploration of light and color that is part of a City-wide effort to bring more artist led temporary art installations to the city of Boston. 

This year's festival will feature a kickoff concert headlined by Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings on Friday, Sept. 7 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., then run from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9. Throughout the weekend, there will be scheduled performances running live on two stages. 

There will also be a program of family friendly activities including interactive paintings led by the Mayor’s Mural Crew, a special children’s area, and a glass blowing demonstration. Local artist, Fish McGill will lead a collaborative drawing project with festival-goers. There will also be puppet encounters, a chalk artist and several other exciting additions to this year’s interactive program.

The festival has grown in size and scope since it was first founded in 2003, expanding during the last 10 years from a single day event to a 3-day celebration of contemporary and interactive art. 

The park is easily accessible from Jamaica Plain by taking the Orange Line to Haymarket.