Artpark invites schools, scouts, artists, to create fairy houses

Artpark is seeking local schools, Scout groups, regional artists, and families to create fairy houses for display at Artpark's new "Fairy House Festival" on June 5. The "Fairy House Festival" will feature a tour of fairy houses throughout the woods and gardens of the park, a book signing by children's book author Tracy Kane, art activities and other "natural" fun for families to enjoy. Tickets for the festival are $5 and can be purchased in advance at www.artpark.net or by calling 754-4375.

Fairy houses are small structures built from sticks, dry grasses, leaves, pinecones and other natural materials. The simple challenge of creating a fairy house connects children with nature and encourages respect for the environment. Building guidelines, applications and photos of fairy houses can be found at www.artpark.net. The application deadline is Feb. 15. Completed houses may be submitted at a later date.

In conjunction with the festival, Artpark will feature the artist-created houses in an extended exhibit beyond the festival date. Staff members from the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University will jury artist houses. The selected houses and one $250 grand prize winner will be exhibited at the Castellani Museum from July 17-Aug. 21. All other artist-created houses may opt to be put on display at the Burchfield Nature & Art Center.

For more information on the "Fairy House Festival" and how to enter, visit www.artpark.net or call 754-4375.