The Poverty Bay Arts Festival is back following a successful launch in 2010!

The 2011 event will again highlight the talents of local visual and performance artists particularly from Des Moines, Highline Community College and surrounding Southwest King County. The Des Moines Arts Commission, the Associated Students of Highline Community College, and 4 Culture sponsor the event.

The exhibition takes place Sept. 10, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at various locations throughout the downtown Des Moines Marina District. Artists display their works at various local businesses so festival-goers have the opportunity to enjoy great art while checking out the offerings of local businesses.

The Poverty Bay Arts Festival attracts several thousand attendees due tot the added bonus of two other events scheduled on the same day:

• The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers’ Market in the south Marina parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• The second annual Poverty Bay Blues and Brews Festival sponsored by the Rotary Club of Des Moines from noon until 7 p.m. at Des Moines Beach Park at the north end of the Marina

A Silent Arts Auction also takes place at the Oddfellows Hall opens at 10 a.m. and bidding ends at 3 p.m.  Musical entertainment and refreshments will be available during the auction.

Finally, a Poetry Slam at Barnacles Restaurant goes from noon to 2 p.m.  1st prize $75, 2nd prize $50 and 3rd prize $25.

Organizers are still looking for artists and businesses to participate.  The registration form and more info can be found at www.PovertyBayArtsFestival.com.

Come on down to Des Moines’ historic Poverty Bay district and make a day of it!