SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WSBT) — South Bend's creative scene had a bold spotlight this weekend.
The Rebel Art Fest at Potawatomi Park brought together hundreds of local artists.
According to Rebel Art Fest organizers, Sunday afternoon marked their 11th year hosting the all-day event, with around 12,000 to 15,000 attendees expected.
The Rebel Art Fest at Potawatomi Park brought together hundreds of local artists (WSBT Photo).
I love the atmosphere. It’s in the shade. I just like the variety of different artistic expressions,” said Scott Cunningham, festival attendee.
But the festival didn’t always have a big turnout —and it wasn’t always held at Potawatomi Park.
It originally started in a parking lot, but the festival was invited to make the move by South Bend’s Venues, Parks & Arts several years back.
The Rebel Art Fest at Potawatomi Park brought together hundreds of local artists (WSBT Photo).
Organizers said the event’s idea stems from what they call South Bend’s lack of a space for underground artists to showcase their talents.
It’s not like there’s not good artists in South Bend. There’s just not much of a community for them. And so we have the opportunity to bring that to the wider population who might not be involved in the underground art scene here in town,” said Nat Fitzgerald, Rebel Art Fest Co-Organizer.
The free festival showcased everything from handmade pottery and stained-glass art to experimental alternative music.
The Rebel Art Fest at Potawatomi Park brought together hundreds of local artists (WSBT Photo).
One pottery vendor told WSBT that festivals like these help sustain local artists.
It gives us the opportunity to sell our work and put it out in front of the world, you know? And get our names out there. I think it’s important to support local artists, you know, and see the vibrant community that we have,” said Nicole Rininger, vendor.
The Rebel Art Fest plans to return to South Bend next year.
