VIBES: A New Spin on an Artwalk

VIBES is a free, open air event to be held in downtown Edmond on the first Thursday of each month from 5pm to 9pm beginning in April and continuing through October. A creative collaboration, businesses will pair with artists and performers, offering an invitation to explore Edmond’s growing downtown district alongside the sounds and sights of local creatives. 

Former mayor, Patrice Douglas says, “I’ve visited art walks across the country and was inspired to put a new spin on the concept for Edmond.” VIBES is the product of a committee made up of city leaders, art enthusiasts and downtown business owners. Edmond Fine Arts Institute will facilitate the event, making the connection between local artists and their neighboring businesses. Program Director Savannah Whitehead says, “It’s our hope to highlight the energy in downtown Edmond. We’re excited to see the community connect with both visual and performing artists as they explore downtown.” 

A Hub for Creativity  

The Downtown Edmond area is home to nearly 100 permanent art pieces featuring modern and historic murals, newly installed interactive art pieces, bronze, stone and steel sculptures. The addition of live art will complement the existing pieces and perhaps draw attention to the creativity that exists in downtown Edmond everyday. The owners of the diverse retail, restaurant, and experience businesses are excited to welcome the community inside to showcase what they have to offer. The event will appeal to all tastes and offer something fresh each month. 

Blocworks Climbing Gym owner Evan Small is thrilled at the idea of VIBES. “The overall vibe of the event is how I want downtown Edmond to feel,” he says. He also added that many of his staff members are artists, musicians, potters, and painters. VIBES is a perfect fit for the vibrantly colored climbing gym. They look forward to hosting a different artist each month and to welcome new faces.

Experience Edmond 

In a time of travel limitations, it’s time to get creative. Jennifer Seaton, Executive Director of Visit Edmond, says, “Tourism is about getting out of your bubble and discovering unexpected treasures. These treasures are waiting for you in your own hometown.” 

A leading sponsor of the event, Mercy Hospital has worked alongside the committee to ensure the event is as safe as possible. Downtown allows ample room to social distance; city and state mandates will be upheld. The event was created in the midst of the pandemic as a way to bring connection through creativity. The downtown community is well positioned for an event like VIBES. Those who have not been downtown in a while will be delighted by the vibrant new look. 

Artists have jumped at the opportunity to participate in VIBES. Visual artists like Amanda Cole, Reian Williams, and Brad McNeill will be featured in addition to dancers, aerial performers, and musical performers like Nick Massey, Edgar Cruz, and Poetry and Chill. A full list of participating businesses, artists, and performers can be found at www.edmondvibes.org.