Attending the F.A.C.E. 614 Color of Summer 2024 event in Columbus, Ohio, was an extraordinary experience that truly celebrated the vibrancy and creativity of the arts. Held on Saturday, July 6th, at the Columbus Museum of Art, the event featured a dazzling array of live bands, spoken word performances, and a fashion show, along with various other attractions. With a crowd of at least two to three thousand people in attendance, the energy was palpable. Cash bar stations were conveniently located throughout the venue, and free food was available at multiple stations, ensuring everyone could enjoy the festivities comfortably.

As one of the 30+ artists displaying work at the event, I was honored to have my art showcased alongside such a talented group of creatives. My participation began at the pre-Color of Summer event on Thursday, June 13th, where I was among the first five artists to display our works. This preliminary event, attended by over 250 people, featured a live band, complimentary food, and a cash bar, creating a perfect atmosphere for art appreciation. It was also my first opportunity to explore the Columbus Museum of Art, and I found the experience enriching, especially when comparing it to my familiar Cleveland Museum of Art.

The Columbus Museum of Art stood out to me for its impressive collection of contemporary pieces, contrasting with the Cleveland Museum of Art's more traditional offerings. This difference is likely due to Cleveland also housing the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), which allows CMA to focus more on traditional artworks. Walking through the Columbus Museum, I appreciated the distinctiveness of each institution and enjoyed the fresh perspective offered by the contemporary exhibits.

The Color of Summer event was not only a delightful experience but also a successful one for me personally. I was thrilled to sell one of my favorite paintings of Andre 3000, which added to the excitement of the day. The opportunity to engage with so many art enthusiasts and share my work in such a vibrant setting was incredibly rewarding. This event highlighted the importance of art in bringing communities together and celebrating creativity, and I look forward to participating in future events that foster such connections.