by Conner Morris, reporter

FAIRHOPE, Ala.- The Eastern Shore Art Association hosted the annual First Friday Artwalk on March 1, from 4 to 8 p.m. in downtown Fairhope. 

Unfortunately due to the weather, bands were not playing on the streets and several stores did not open. 

The weather did not stop art enthusiasts from entinding and enjoying the event. 

Kelley Lyons’ husband Mike is the Eastern Shore Art Association president, an organization that started in the late 90s.

“Only our Art gallery [Lyons Shore Gallery] and the Eastern Shore art Association were the only two things that were open when the artwalk started, and it took a long time for people to start coming to the art walk,” Lyons said.” Only six people came to the art walk at first.” 

The art walk has brought attention to Downtown Fairhope. 

“We were one of the first Fridays in the state of Alabama,” Lyons said. 

“It makes me love art more that I can make it also, I have a few pieces of my art in my gallery actually,” Lyons said. 

People come from different parts of the world to go to the art walk in Fairhope.  

Local stores displayed artwork and provides snacks for people to enjoy. From sculptures to paintings and all sorts of art, people were walking around, exploring and admiring the works of talented artists.

Renee Phipps attended the art walk as a visitor from Michigan. 

“We just started the art walk and it smells good in this soap shop,” Phipps said.” I had a lot of fun at the art walk.”

For interested art lovers the next art walk is to be held on April 5.