The Octagon’s Art Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary with a new name and the tradition of quality artwork from Midwest artists. Formerly known as Art in the Park, The Octagon’s Art Festival offers visitors the chance to view and purchase quality artwork from close to 90 artists, watch artists’ demonstrations, try their luck at a raffle and enjoy entertainment by local music and dance groups. “We have a wide variety [of art] displayed -ÿpottery, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, wood, drawings – a little bit of everything,” said Letitia Hansen, curator of The Octagon Center for the Arts. People can expect to find artwork in every medium and a variety of styles. Participating artists consist of returning favorites, such as Bob Anderson, Linda Emmerson, Pam Schmacker and some new faces such as Katherine Schott, James Braun and Nadine Hawbaker. Those familiar with the festival will notice its new name. In the past, the festival was held outdoors and was appropriately called Art in the Park. “Because of the unpredictable weather, we’ve moved it indoors,” Hansen said. “We changed the name to better reflect the event.” In honor of the festival’s 30th anniversary, the kids’ activities have expanded and will be held in two areas of the festival. Kids can participate in “make-and-take” projects centering around a hat theme. In addition to artwork, the festival has a diverse lineup of entertainment. Among those performing will be Karma Lab (a local alternative band), The Good Guys (a country/folk band) and the Mirage Belly Dancers. A raffle of artwork donated by the artists will also be held at the festival. Art Ciccotti and Ames Silversmithing are donating the two feature prizes for the raffle. “A lot of people attend because of their interest in artistic things,” said Ciccotti, who has participated in the festival for three years. “Also, since it’s juried, where artists present their work to get accepted for the festival, it’s a higher level art festival than a craft fair.” Hansen said people can purchase art at a variety of prices. “Whether you want to spend $5 or hundreds of dollars, you know that the pieces are original and high-quality,” she said. “These pieces of art are great for a collection, decorating or for gifts.” The volunteer-coordinated event celebrates the arts and is a major fund-raiser for The Octagon Center for the Arts. The Octagon strives to give people access to the arts, by participation in and viewing the artwork, bringing art into their lives, Hansen said. “This festival is a preview to what the Octagon can offer,” Hansen said.