Page 32 - San Angelo

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, the Art Center welcomes anyone in the community or abroad to come visit the studios and catch the “art spirit” they’ve worked so diligently to keep alive.

The Chicken Farm hosts community events through the year in which they encourage everyone to be involved. On the frst Saturday of every month, all ffteen of the artists’ studios are open to visitors in addition to the twenty to twenty-fve temporary booths and tables set up by other local artists. The entire community is invited to stroll through the art center grounds, taking in the range of artwork from pottery to paintings and everything

in between. The Chicken Farm offers free clay for the children in attendance as well as free music and demonstrations by the Concho Forge and Concho Valley Blacksmith Fellowship.

Roger stresses the communal feel of the Saturday events. Guaranteed, there is always something for everyone, whether it’s a beautiful piece of pottery, a hand-sewn purse, a bronze statue, or a painting. Between the Chicken Pickers music inspired by times passed, or the delicious curl of grill smoke hazing the air, anyone can fnd something to which they can relate on those special Saturdays at the Chicken Farm.

“The frst Saturdays have just become

standard. Everyone loves it,” Roger said proudly.

Another family friendly event the Chicken Farm hosts is the Thanksgiving Weekend Open House on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday after Thanksgiving. While family is already in the area visiting, an outing to the Chicken Farm is the optimal idea for an all-encompassing trip. Local artists and those from around the state are invited to display their work in addition to the regular Chicken Farm Artists. Face painting, free music and drinks are available as well. The Chicken Farm considers the San Angelo community family, so it only seems right that the holidays are spent together as well.

Now, the Chicken Farm houses two art galleries, 15 artist studios, a bed & breakfast, as well as the Silo House Restaurant. The three acres sheltered behind an old wooden fence line brims with life-size artwork displayed around the grounds. The 15 artist studios are always occupied, proving the welcoming quality the Chicken Farm exudes.