9 July OAC Guide to the Ohio State Fair July 9, 2015 artists, Public apprentice, fine art, master artist, ohio entertainment, ohio state fair, old time music, state fair, tradition, traditional arts 0 Ohio State Fair July 29 - August 9, 2015 State fairs by their very nature are controlled chaos. With antiques to peruse, livestock to judge, and festival food to find, it's easy to get swept up in the grandness of it all (and we're not just talking about that slide). For many families the State Fair is a bonafide tradition, and 2015 continues the summer memories. If it isn't already marked on your calendar, now's the time to start a new tradition. We've got your itinerary covered. Just make sure you grab a funnel cake (and a map!) on the way. Ohio Heritage Day Thursday, August 6, at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Stage A welcome oasis among the crowds, Ohio Heritage Day at the ODNR stage is a hidden gem among attractions. The Ohio Arts Council's Ohio Heritage Fellowships are awarded to individuals and organizations whose work in the folk and traditional arts has had a significant impact on the people and communities of Ohio. Folk and traditional arts grow out of particular cultures and are recognized as the artistic expressions of ethnic, linguistic, occupational, or regional groups. The amphitheater schedule is jam-packed, but we've got two traditional acts you won't want to miss. 11:30 a.m. - Traditional Master Artist Whitt Mead and his apprentice Ellie Hoffman Whitt is committed to both old-time music and the culture it champions. He believes in the importance of reinforcing the community aspect of fiddling, which he demonstrates by playing at square dances and community events while also recording with the traditional Appalachian string band, “The River Rats.” Ellie Hoffman, despite her young age, is an accomplished musician in both violin and fiddle. Ellie is interested not just in performing music, but also in learning about the historical periods that accompanied the music she plays. Learn more about Whitt and Ellie. 4:30 p.m. - The Jericho Old Time Band Join Traditional Master Artist Warren Waldron with Susan Pepper and Jonathan Bradshaw (a husband-and-wife apprentice duo) when they take the stage with Jericho. A self-described group of old-time musicians who like to share the fun and variety of old-time music. Jericho presents an eclectic mix of American roots music including lively old-time fiddle tunes, lonesome ballads, early country vocal duets, mountain dulcimer, a variety of banjo styles and more! It is important to us to honor the rich traditions of these wonderful old tunes, while at the same time bringing our energy to make them our own. Follow along on Facebook and check out their website for past performances and future shows. Fine Arts Exhibition July 29 to August 9 in the Cox Fine Arts Center Looking for a way to take part in the art? Find some relief from the heat and head over to the Cox Fine Arts Center to view an impressive roster of original work from professional and amateur artists alike. This annual exhibition results in thousands of dollars worth of award money for Ohio artists, and you get a say! The "People's Choice Award" is selected by you and other fair attendees. The OAC sponsors the $500 award and we want to know what you think! Be sure to grab a ballot and vote for your favorite artwork before the end of the fair on August 9. Know someone who should submit next year? Policies and procedures, information on past competitions, and related news can be found on the Ohio State Fair website. Discounts and pricing information available online. ABOUT THE OHIO ARTS COUNCIL The Ohio Arts Council is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically. Connect with the OAC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, or visit our website at oac.ohio.gov. ### Comments are closed.