February ArtStroll hits downtown

The Second-Friday ArtStroll downtown Feb. 10 from 5-8 p.m. will showcase talented local musicians. It has been said whether we are touched through music or see into an artist’s soul through their work, both have the power to change us and to inspire our hearts. Other activities include make it and take it art for all ages, Valentine parties and art and related gifts for sale. The event continues with Still Strolling Saturday during regular business hours. 

Pick up a stroll map during the week or Friday night, at any stroll business to find the location of artists and musicians. Return the map to the host location, Hazel N Pearls, at the end of Friday evening’s stroll to be entered to win a piece of art work donated by the artists.

Friday evening music will take place at several venues. Stroll along to hear Prairie Grass, an acoustic band that has been playing bluegrass and old time country music since 1990. Band members include Joan Stetler, bass and harmony vocals, Karen Hitchens, rhythm guitar and lead vocals, Harold Hutson, playing guitar and lead vocals, Zieb Stetler is the banjo player and Jed Jacobsen will entertain on his mandolin.

Mike Howland and Cal Gandy will also be performing. Howland took up the guitar in the mid 60s and is self-taught. He played in church and says “the nuns taught me a lot about playing the guitar.” He likes playing in front of people because it’s scary and he likes the thrill. Howland and Gandy have put together a play list of songs; folk, country, contemporary, and 50s R & R.

The Southside Jammers will also be performing along the stroll. The twice monthly jam started in 2009 as part of the Light’s On Bluegrass Academy. The jam takes place on the first and third Friday of the month and draws musicians from all around Thermopolis, even from as far away as Rapid City, S.D. The jam Friday evening is open to anyone who wants to play an instrument or sing.

Douglas Nelson will lead an interactive drum circle during the event. Strollers can pick up an instrument and play along, or bring your own drum and join the fun.

Host business, Hazel N Pearls, features A Sweet Treat for the Valentine in your life from the Hospital Auxiliary Bake Sale. There will be a Let Me Call You Sweetheart Valentine Party. Strollers will enjoy jewelry by Ana Mosser and Gig Riggers special creations will be available for Valentine gift ideas. Strollers will receive a special handmade Valentine gift.

Watch for A Make It and Take It art activity with Audrey Hensley, 12, who will show strollers how to make different shapes by cutting paper. Make birds, snowflakes and different designs Friday evening. See how creative you can be with a pair of scissors, a piece of paper and your own imagination. Artists Gayle Phipps, multi-media, and Jennifer Taylor, handmade soap, will be on hand as well.

Sallie Wesaw will be showing her artwork in many media. Jennie Blakesley will be showing her jewelry. Shawna Zimmer, multimedia, new to the stroll, will be displaying her work. Stephanie Conrad has an ever-changing display of handmade and repurposed items, along with demonstrations.

Textile artists Joyce Fletcher, Andrea Linn and Jane Oldridge will be showing their work and will feature a Make It and Take It Valentine Bookmark activity. Susan Langford will demonstrate working with healing oils. Hot Springs County High School’s senior class is having a fund raiser. Purchase your Bobcat blankets and door mats during the stroll.

Anyone who wants to come with your instruments can sing and play during an open mic event.

Continue strolling on Still Strolling Saturday at participating businesses.

The Second-Friday ArtStroll and Still Strolling Saturday are organized by Hot Springs Greater Learning Foundation and Smoking Waters Art Guild with additional help from Main Street Thermopolis and Hot Springs Travel & Tourism.