NORMAN — With the changing of the season comes the annual Downtown Arts Market, now in its fourth year. This year, however, the market has landed a more prime location, Amber Clour, founder and executive director of Dreamer Concepts Studio and Foundation, said.
This year’s market will take place in a grassy spot on the northeast corner of Main Street and Santa Fe Avenue. November and December’s markets, though, will be held in the Old Town Plaza building.
The market, which is presented by DCSF, kicks off Sept. 11. Following market dates are Oct.9, Nov. 6 and Dec. 3-4. The market runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market will feature the work of approximately 30-40 artists, as well as live music and even a chess tournament.
The chess tournament is inspired by street players in the big city.
“We kind of wanted to bring a fun element back,” Clour said of the tournament.
September’s musicians include Bungalouski, Red River Rebellion, Jahruba drum circle and students from McMichael Music. The featured visual artist for September’s market is photographer Mark Williams.
The artists’ renderings will range from jewelry to blown glass to paintings and photography, Clour said. Prints will be available, too. Clour still is accepting applications for artists to participate in the market. The applications are available at the DCSF website, www.dreamerconcepts.org. Cost to participate is $10 for a booth, plus 10 percent of sales.
“We’re trying to make it an affordable avenue for all artists,” Clour said.
She said the positioning and timing of the market were done in the hopes of driving traffic to downtown Norman during game days. She hopes people will come visit downtown Norman for the market, shop a bit and grab some food before heading to the game.
