MORGANTOWN — The sight of artwork from more than 50 artists and the sounds of local musicians flooded downtown Morgantown Saturday during the June Arts Walk.
While showcasing Morgantown’s vibrant downtown and active art scene, this year’s third Main Street Morgantown event had much to celebrate, including LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Juneteenth and West Virginia’s 158th birthday, to name a few.
“There’s probably way more stuff going on than what we even know about,” said Barabara Watkins, executive director of Main Street Morgantown. “There’s so many things that happen in the month of June that we get to celebrate.”
Patrons who were hoping to bring home West-Virginia-themed art were in luck as art celebrating the Mountain State was in abundance. Ben Kolb, owner of Nativibes based in Mannington, was one of several artisans selling Appalachian-themed art.
Using coal he collects from streams, Kolb uses homemade coal paint to create watercolor artwork. From mothman to wildlife paintings, Kolb’s work celebrates everything Appalachia has to offer.
“I love [the Arts Walk],” Kolb said. “I love talking to everyone, so this is what I like to do on the weekends for fun.”
A few stands down, Melissa Boothe, co-owner of Bubbles, Bones and Biscuits, set up shop to sell her store’s line of homemade dog toys, all natural homemade dog treats, handcrafted dog skincare products and more.
Lined with rainbow flags and Pride Month-themed accessories for shopper’s furry friends, visitors crowded around to check out the stand’s products.
“We feel that love is love and all are welcome, anytime and everywhere,” Boothe said.
For longtime visitors of the Arts Walk, many were thrilled the event is back in full swing after a year of cancellations. Sarah Starcovic, of Morgantown, said she has attended several Arts Walks in the past, and was excited to spend time outside and meet local artists.
“I’m just really happy that they are back,” she said.
Andrea Allman, of Fairmont and friend of Starcovic, said she attended last month’s event as well and was looking forward to celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month at the event.
“I came to the last one and it was super awesome,” she said. “I figured since it’s pride, it’s got to be better.”
The most important part of any birthday celebration is a birthday cake. After supporting local artists and checking out downtown’s businesses, visitors were welcome to enjoy sweet treats from cake to cupcakes from WVU Catering to celebrate West Virginia’s birthday, as well as Juneteenth and LGBTQ+ Pride Month.
For those unable to attend the June Arts Walk, several others are planned through the summer. The next will be July 10.
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