EASLEY — The first annual Foothills Arts Festival will be held Saturday May 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Old Market Square in downtown Easley.

The event is hosted by the Arts Council of Pickens County, a non-profit arts group. The event will feature visual, performing, literary, culinary, and folk artists from around the upstate.

Various artists will have booths set up displaying their works available for purchase. Young artist, Rachel Lovell will feature monochromatic drawings of animals, still life, cars and fantasy. Metal artist, Bob Hiles will have assorted door wreaths, weathervanes, lawn art, clocks and more all created using different metal mediums. Local artist Dale Stone will have a children’s interactive booth where children will be able to help Dale create another work of art for the community to enjoy. Art from The Starving Artist Café will be on display at their booth representing numerous artists from the area. Painter Larry Palmer will display his paintings as well as demonstrate his craft throughout the day. Adam Young, another young local artist, will display an array of paintings and weavings.

Several jewelry artists are also part of this year’s event. Genna Lynn creates one of a kind items using different metals, beads, and gemstones.

Kitty Adams unique creations are made with stamped, etched, or hammered metal mixed with other vintage materials resulting in truly original works of art that can be worn! Artisan Lesley Round utilizes recycled materials to create jewelry and produces hand knitted products. Jean Fisher’s products range from handmade towels to hairbows to angel ornaments made with sea shells.

Local businesses that offer services related to the arts will have booths to inform the community of their offerings. The Fine Arts Center of Easley offers programs year round in the performing arts and will have an information booth where people can learn more about their programs. Easley Dance Conservatory’s booth will offer information about their summer programs and year round programs.

Throughout the day, free entertainment occupies the Amphitheatre stage.

Music from the Pickens Middle School Strings Ensemble will fill the spring air with sweet sounds. Actors from the Pickens High School Drama Department will entertain with a program designed for young children.

Dancers from Easley Dance Conservatory will inspire young and old to “dance like no one’s watching”. Energy from the Daniel High School jazz band will excite the afternoon crowd. Members of the YACE from the Fine Arts Center of Easley will mesmerize the audience with their dramatic presentations. Spotlight Dance Company will provide an energetic dance performance for the community.

Local restaurants will be on site to provide an opportunity for lunch or snacks. The planning committee’s main goal is to offer a community event that gives exposure to all areas of the arts. Sponsors for this year’s event are; Fine Arts Center of Easley, The Starving Artist Café, and Easley Dance Conservatory.

All events and activities are free of charge. For more information, contact Suzanne Goodman at 430-9833 or sgoodski@aol.com.