Port Clinton Art Festival Highlights Creativity and Community

The Port Clinton Art Festival in Highland Park welcomed around 300 artists this year, attracting thousands of visitors. Aurora artist Mays Mayhew, with her diptych piece ‘Headwinds Tailwinds’, shared her perspective on art as a reflection of personal hopes, dreams, and memories. Her creations are driven by emotional narratives, each telling its own story.

Amidst the crowded festival, a young child with a purple balloon added to the lively atmosphere during the two-day free event starting on August 28, 2026. Although the weather varied from overcast to sunny, the enthusiasm of attendees remained constant.

Amy Amdur, President of Amdur Productions, emphasized the importance of community support in the success of the festival. Founded in 1984, her company continues to foster appreciation for the arts. This year’s festival supported beneficiaries like WINGS Program Inc., offering aid to those affected by domestic violence, and PFLAG, an LGBTQ advocacy group. More information can be found at PFLAG’s website and WINGS Program’s website.

Music played a significant role in the festival, with performances on three stages throughout the event. Allie Kessel from Chicago honored the late Dolly Parton by singing ‘Jolene’. Her tribute highlighted the soothing power of art, often helping people overcome difficult times. Amdur praised Parton’s voice as ‘so beautiful’.

Digital artist Jesse Kunerth from Pittsburgh participated for the first time, presenting a portrait of Dolly Parton priced at $300. He offered prints for $40, selling many due to the icon’s popularity. Kunerth included Parton in his collection because of her inspiring character and contributions to society.

The festival underscored the resilience of Highland Park, particularly in light of the tragic Independence Day parade shooting in 2022 that took place at Port Clinton Square. Amdur reflected on the tragedy’s impact, noting that art continues to unite people four years later. Learn more about the festival at Amdur Productions.

Karie Angell Luc contributed to this coverage for Pioneer Press.