Wes Thorn demonstrated his wood art techniques, sharing insights at the inaugural Sand + Steel Art Fest in Valparaiso. A resident of Portage, Thorn worked with 120 grit sandpaper, sanding wooden edges for painting and assembly. ‘It’s cheaper than therapy,’ Thorn quipped, referring to his artistic process.
Melissa Dombrowski from Crown Point, along with her son Wyatt, was seen making a pocket sketch book. They participated in this creative activity, supported by Valparaiso’s Art Barn.
Thorn, a professional welder and amateur carpenter, shared his self-taught journey. He highlighted the labor-intensive process behind his art pieces. ‘Those paintings take me days of sanding,’ he explained. During the fest, he sped up his process to complete a smaller piece after a nudge from Valparaiso Creative Council’s Executive Director, Jessica Corral.
His artwork, akin to a puzzle, involves cutting, sanding, painting, and framing. Choosing colors can be a bit of ‘a color lottery’ for him. Thorn shared, ‘Sometimes it’s better to leave it to the universe.’
Meanwhile, the festival offered diverse experiences with over 50 local artists displaying their work. Dinah Pethes and Gayle Sandquist explored the art scene, bustling with activity and creativity.
Inspired by Piet Mondrian’s geometric paintings, Thorn began his artistic journey post a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. Despite initial challenges, he embraced the abstract style influenced by Jackson Pollock.
At the fest, Beth Vottero from Valparaiso invited interaction with her painting. Attendees could add their touch to her work, fostering a welcoming environment for art novices and children. Her art reflects a blend of spontaneity and inspiration.
Participants like Leah Romano McMeen and Deb Weiss showcased various art forms. McMeen, a graphic artist, turned her passion for painting into a business, offering prints of her work inspired by the local scenic beauty. Weiss, a retired art teacher, crafted unique bird sculptures from found items, connecting her creations with personal narratives.
Sand-based activities led by Jennifer Hernandez-McDuell, in partnership with the nearly one-year-old Porter County Children’s Museum, emphasized developmental skills through play. Kids engaged with sandboxes and hyperkinetic sand, exploring artistic expressions.
The Art Barn’s station attracted young artists, crafting pocket sketchbooks. Volunteers like Marin Arizzi and Evalina Moreno guided children in creativity, showcasing the importance of early artistic engagement.
Families, such as the De Rivera clan, enjoyed diverse activities ranging from sand art to nature exhibits. Catrina De Rivera appreciated the fest for providing a productive and enjoyable environment away from home.
Overall, the Sand + Steel Art Fest celebrated local talent and community creativity, strengthening Valparaiso’s cultural vibrancy.
Doug Ross reports for the Post-Tribune.
Leave a Reply