For four days in July since 1960, the city streets of Ann Arbor, Michigan have been transformed into one of the largest outdoor art galleries in the United States. Artists in all media set up their booths in juried shows both on the campus of the University of Michigan and in downtown Ann Arbor. The Ann Arbor Art Fair--actually three fairs in one--draws over 500,000 visitors a year. It has won many awards and accolades, including being named the Number One Art Fair in the country in 2004.
On Wednesday, July 18, 2007--a lovely hot day--I joined the crowds. Although my intention was to take candid photos of people, I ended up buying some art too, which was not surprising, I guess. In my gallery you'll see Dawn and her mother Rita holding their handpainted silk top that I purchased. You'll also see a couple of photos of Lou Zale, a film photographer who creates his own "rooms" filled with whimsical objects and then photographs them. No digital Photoshop for Lou, at least not yet. I also spent time talking to Joe Becker, a gifted glassblower from Minnesota. You'll see examples of his work here too. But there are lots of candid shots as well.
So why don't you sit back and enjoy riding my scooter with me through the streets of Ann Arbor...