Image by Flickr user Terence J Sullivan

The City of North Charleston Cultural ArtsDepartment is now accepting applications from artists in music, theatre, dance, visual art, crafts, photography, media arts, and literary arts to participate in the 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival to be held May 4-12. 

A variety of individuals and groups are being sought to represent national, regional, and local arts professionals, cultural organizations, community programs, and schools. Artists may apply for inclusion in the Main Event Weekend, held May 5 and 6 at the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex, as well as for Individual Events, which take place at various locations throughout North Charleston during the festival week. Visual artists should note that this particular application should be used to apply for events and presentations such as installations, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, film screenings, lectures, etc., and not for participation in the Festival’s Juried Art Competitions.

Applications are available on the web at www.northcharleston.org under Cultural Arts. The deadline for Artist Applications is Wednesday, January 4, 2012. 

The North Charleston Arts Festival is one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the Lowcountry, providing thousands of residents and visitors with a fabulous array of performances, exhibitions, and activities. The Main Event, held the first weekend in May, offers free admission and parking to over 40 performances on four themed stage stages; General Audience, Cultural Heritage, Youth Entertainment, and Bands. Other Main Event activities include judged art, photography, youth art, and fine craft exhibitions, a gem and mineral show, an antique show, children's activities, art and craft booths, and an outdoor food courtyard.  The Arts Festival continues with numerous free or moderately priced ticketed events throughout the week at various locations around North Charleston and concludes with fireworks over the Cooper River at the Grand Finale at North Charleston Riverfront Park.

For more information about the North Charleston Arts Festival, or to download applications for participation, visit www.northcharleston.org under Cultural Arts or call the Cultural Arts Department office at (843) 740-5854.