SUN EDITORIAL: A time to celebrate art
September 24, 2008

When Saturday arrives, we'll be reminded again of one of the reasons why Mount Vernon is such a wonderful place - and what sets it apart from other great towns in Eastern Iowa.

The third annual Lincoln Highway Arts Festival is held that day, bringing 33 professional artists to the street (literally) in uptown Mount Vernon.

Organizers point out that many communities have what they call art festivals in Iowa this time of year, when it's a tremendous treat to be outdoors. What sets Mount Vernon's apart, we believe, is that it excludes crafts and kitsch. It's art that's been screened by local art experts.

Additionally, our festival celebrates the fact that the Mount Vernon area is full of accomplished artists. Eight of the artists in this year's festival are local. We're proud to be in a community filled with artists; we're proud that our town's art council recognizes them.

We also love this festival because it brings quality art to everyone. Although we have a town full of artists, there are many of us who don't think about the importance of art. Who don't experience it. Who might even think, "I'm not into art," simply because they haven't sought out the opportunity to "get into it."

The Arts Fest opens doors to those people. Meet the artists and you'll learn how art has affected their lives. You'll recognize the diversity in the artist community. Take advantage of a comfortable way to see and feel art in a place right in the heart of your community.

The Lincoln Highway Arts Festival is one of our gems. Check it out.