Artopia: Beyond Expectation

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I had the pleasure of attending RFT's Artopia at the St. Louis Artists Guild and it was more than I expected. It was more than just a pleasant surprise. The grounds were bustling with artists, musicians, and people of all interests as they made their way from one discovery to the next.

At the entrance to the The Guild, Mo & Dawn invited guests to the campus with smooth Jazz and intriguing vocals. Also on the front lawn, an oil painter moved to the music as he applied colors to his canvas. Hosts prompted for drinks and snacks as people buzzed their way into the huge mansion.

If you have never been to the St. Louis Artists Guild, I highly recommend going for an event or one of their many galleries or exhibitions. The Guild, established in 1886, is nationally recognized for it's reputation in the Midwest. Click here for more information on the history of the Guild.

Scattered among three floors of galleries were hidden treasures of the Marked Surfaces Exhibition. On the first level, the Mad Art Exhibition colored the walls with artists building colors on canvass' through out the rooms. Walking upstairs to the second floor, rooms were filled with sculptures, and artful objects and the Skin Deep Exhibit featuring the art of Asian paint tattooing. Circling up the staircase further led guests to the third floor, a big room that held a large crowd taking in the music from the live DJ.

Outside, there was an RFT model decked from head to toe in RFT print and body paint. On the other side of the patio were drummers, dancers, and flame jugglers to add to the spectrum of artistic expression.

This was a tremendous event and I thoroughly enjoyed attending. At every turn there was something interesting going on, and atmosphere was great. I hope that this event returns again next year, as it will be one I add to my annual calendar.

Also, Visit the Artist's Guild soon as the Mad Art Exhibit and others will be closing September 6th so hurry! Upcoming galleries include Emerging Artists and Express Yourself Exhibitions opening September 14th.