Photo courtesy of Saint Louis Art Fair
Performers strutting on stilts, a dance contest your librarian will love, and an oasis for festival patrons needing a break are just a few of the new items on the docket at the Saint Louis Art Fair this weekend.
Although the festival may be in its 26th year, executive director Sarah Umlauf says she can't wait for attendees to see what's new.
The Animal Cracker Conspiracy will make its St. Louis debut, providing on-the-ground interactive entertainment, and guests can bust a move at the silent disco to the beat of their own drum—literally. Each participant will get a pair of headphones they can tune to one of three local DJs. "[Silent discos] are really fun to participate in, but I think they're even more fun to watch," Umlauf says.
If that's not your thing, try the Reuban Brown Signature Club, a ticketed oasis where guests can relax and enjoy two cocktails.
Photo courtesy of Saint Louis Art Fair
The Animal Cracker Conspiracy is a California-based performing ensemble exploring the intersection of fine art, puppetry, performance art, physical theater, and mixed media.
This will mark Umlauf's first year as executive director of the fair. She began 12 years ago as a volunteer and, over time, has developed friendships with many of the artists. "I've always put artists first, and I've always had such great respect for their work," Umlauf says. "I'm fortunate in that I have that connection with them."
Around 180 artists, including award-winning Matthew Hemminghaus and Grant Kiffen, will showcase their work, and three stages will feature live music and performances.
Bringing little ones? The kid-friendly Creative Castle returns this year, offering hands-on experiences to the littlest artists.
"Art and creativity is at the center of all we do," Umlauf says. "It just opens up so many doors, and it's something we want people to embrace."
When:
- 5–10 p.m. Friday, September 6
- 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday, September 7
- 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, September 8
Where
Downtown Clayton. See the fair map below, and download it here.
