From Canvasses to Clay Creations: Gainesville’s Downtown Festival and Art Show

By: Megan Howard

Hundreds of people gathered around Bo Diddley Plaza for Gainesville’s 43rd festival and art show, where visitors could experience live performances, art and food vendors.

The City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs department hosted the 43rd annual Downtown Festival and Art Show on Nov. 9 and 10. 

Over 200 vendors lined the streets up to the Hippodrome with tents and booths. Food and beverage vendors sold gyros, smoothies, coffee and arepas. Art vendors sold a variety of products, ranging from jewelry and pottery to 3D sculptures, allowing attendees to find the perfect item.

Silvestre Hernandez Reyes, a Gainesville based jeweler of the company Silvestre Designs, was present at the market and sold both silver and gold jewelry, jeweled with stones he collected during his worldwide travels.

As an immigrant and Native American, his jewelry is inspired by his culture and the collaboration of North and Central America.

“I grew up in Mexico; I’m comanche,” he said. “That permits me to understand the work of the indigenous people in the United States to the south in Central America, Mexico.” 

Reyes has been making jewelry professionally for 25 years and this year was his fifth time participating in the art show.

“I’ve had really good success here,” he said. 

Debbie Simkins of Natureheart Clay Creations creates mosaic pieces from hand-carved tiles. After working as an elementary school teacher for over 30 years, she began professionally creating and selling art. 

Her work displayed at the show consisted of nautical pieces. She used freshwater pearls and natural stones to fill the blank space in the tiles. 

“I’m mostly inspired by nature, wildlife,” she said. “That’s what makes me happiest.”

Simkins is based out of Leesburg, Florida, and this year was her first time showcasing her art in Gainesville. 

“I’m very happy to be here and hopefully I’ll be here next year as well,” she said.

Drew Michael Marotte traveled from Melrose, Florida, to present his brand Askew Art by Drew. His pieces consisted of triangular canvases outfitted with paint, board game pieces and faux pearls.

He uses his art to explore abstract techniques, shapes and textures. 

“I love 3D art and textured art,” he said.

Although Marotte created art all his life, he didn’t begin selling pieces until about three years ago. He also began participating in the Downtown Festival and Art Show three years ago. 

“I won the award for emerging artist the first year,” he said.