Nothing Square about This Art: Show Celebrates 60 Years

By Christian Meininger

The Hyde Park Square Art Show returns on October 4. The show is celebrating 60 years of showcasing local artists. In the neighborhood of 3,000 visitors stroll the square each year in search of a new favorite piece. Admission is free for the fall Hyde Park staple from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We’re excited to be bring both returning favorites and first-time artists to the square during the show,” said Janet Smith, longtime organizer of the annual event. Smith, who has been a part of the Hyde Park Square Art Show for 30 years, emphasized the talent in the creative community. More than 200 artists from Cincinnati and across the country will showcase and sell original works. The art is in a wide range of media, including painting, photography, ceramics and more.

Those admitted to the show are asked to submit their work electronically, and their enterprises are then judged by a panel. On the day of the show, new judges decide what pieces will win prizes. Hyde Park Square Art Show judges include artists, art educators and gallery owners. The five-panel crew that is tasked with choosing work for the show changes each year. Smith said this is done in an effort to “keep the show new and fresh.”

Since its founding in 1966, the Hyde Park Square Art Show grew from the vision of Joe Sumner and Bill Ferrera. These local business owners worked to improve the neighborhood through a number of civic-minded efforts. The art show continues to be supported by local volunteers. Additionally, the show provides an opportunity for the community to interact with local business owners.

“The show isn’t just about established artists,” Smith said. “It’s also a chance to celebrate talented young artists from area schools. Supporting the next generation through scholarships is one of the things we’re most proud of.”

This year’s college scholarship recipients are Max Cleghorn, Xavier University (graphic design); Skylar Daniel, Northern Kentucky University (ceramics); Tram Dao, University of Cincinnati, College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (fashion design); and Carr Smith, Mount St. Joseph University (art education).

For more information, go to the show’s Facebook page at Hyde Park Square Art Show.