Festival of the Masters Returns to Downtown Disney

[HostDave]

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels returns to Downtown Disney Nov. 9-11, 2012 for its 37th year. The prestigious open-air fine arts festival features nearly 150 award-winning artists, sidewalk chalk art, limited-edition fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass art, Disney collectibles, live music and more. The event takes place from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Art from an array of Disney artists also will be on display and available for purchase. The Disney Artist Village tent at Pleasure Island will feature Disney character art created by masters from various Disney disciplines, including Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative design and development arm of The Walt Disney Company. At the Art of Disney, artist Dave Avanzino will create art pieces using prop-like elements and fonts based on signs and attractions found around Disney theme parks. Both locations will feature artist appearances throughout the weekend.

For the first time ever, the event will feature an Emerging Masters area, where more than 30 juried up-and-coming artists will showcase works and compete for awards. Guests also can become part of the festival with interactive fun. Various activities presented by Michaels will be available, including “Make It Take It” crafts, a do-it-yourself fashion show, and the “Michaels Master Mural” where guests can help create a mosaic-like mural.

Other activities will include:
•Complimentary face painting and live entertainment by performers from La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil
•A chance to help construct an 8-foot tall LEGO Hulk figure
•Art showcase by renowned Irish artist Graham Knuttel on the patio at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant
•Domino games at Fuego by Sosa Cigars
•Live music at various venues, including House of Blues, Bongos Cuban Café and Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant

Admission and self-parking are complimentary at Downtown Disney.

For more information about Festival of the Masters, including exhibit times and other activities, please visit www.DisneyFestivaloftheMasters.com.