No Limits at the Art Car Parade (Houston)
Get in your car and race on over to Houston, Texas, because the incredibly fun Art Car Parade is this weekend! I highly recommend this event, not only because it takes place in my hometown, but also because it is a perfect example of how art plays an integral part in everyone’s daily life. This weekend’s events are part folk art, part fine art, part wholly artistic expression. If you’ll be in the area, you will want to check this out.
The Art Car Parade began in April 1988, with a 40-car caravan seen by ~2,000 people. It was such a hit that the following year submissions doubled, and the crowd swelled to tens of thousands of art-inclined onlookers. As the parade enters its 22nd year, 250+ vehicles from 23 states and Canada will roll through the Houston, Texas streets. Entries will include anything on wheels, from unicycles, to lawnmowers, to grocery delivery trucks. There is no doubt you will get a great range of creative expression at this event, as art cars are as likely to be made by members of the general public as they are to be made by well-established artists.
What I like best about the Houston Art Car Parade is that it is truly a public art event. There is no juried selection process, and best of all, it is totally free! Anyone who makes a creatively-decorated vehicle can participate. So what are you waiting for, join in on the fun! In all of the years that I have attended this parade I have never left disappointed, and neither have scores of artsy celebrities. Just ask George Clinton of the P-Funk Allstars. Here he is having a ball at the 2006 Houston Art Car Parade.
The Houston Art Car Parade is more than just a showcase. Over $10,000 in cash prizes is awarded by a panel of judges in exchange for the effort and expenses that artists incur with their pieces. The panel is comprised of experts and cultural icons from several art, automotive, and entertainment disciplines. In the past, such notables as David Best, Robert Delford Brown, Ann Harithas, Lynda Roscoe Hartigan, Dusty Hill, and Bob Wade have participated.
As the size and scope of the art car parade continues to grow, additional funds will become a necessity. One way that patrons have addressed the current need is by putting on an annual music and dance filled Art Car Ball. This year’s ball will take place on Thursday, May 7th. For more information about the event, visit the Houston Art Car Klub homepage.
May 8th: Sneak Peek at Discovery Green
Description: Get a first look at the new art cars for 2009, and see some old favorites. There will be live music and films on the main stage, with art and entertainment throughout the park.
Details: 6PM – Discovery Green – 1500 McKinney – Free admission
May 9th: Houston Art Car Parade
Description: Watch 250+ decked-out automobiles turn concrete into a canvas
Details: 1PM – Allen Parkway – Free admission
May 9th: VIPit Party
Description: The VIPit offers the absolute best views of the parade, along with ice-cold beverages and tasty treats from Houston-area restaurants. The money raised helps to cover parade costs.
Details: 11AM-3PM – The Heritage Society (1100 Bagby) – Tickets: $125
Related posts
Leave your response!