Established in 1992, the intention of The Art Festival Association (dba Mosaics Fine Art Festival) is to hold an event that is free of charge, educational, accessible, and welcoming to all citizens and visitors to the Saint Charles Community, as well as to provide an opportunity to interact directly with our artists. This professional exhibition demonstrates diversity through innovative and challenging artwork in all media, contemporary art and concepts, and a mix of both emerging and established artists. Mosaics offers a stimulating and educational experience for attendees, while the artists are given the opportunity to showcase their original works of art.
Our program offers the community cultural advantages for families to live, learn, and play together. The Children's Village contains complimentary supplies for children to express their creativity through their own art work while attending the festival. In addition, kids are able to select a piece of artwork on their own from a wide variety of media in The Art for Youth Gallery. Our Pet Adoption tent supports local stray rescue operations, with both attendees and the animals benefitting from the interaction, and possibly gaining a new long term companion. A variety of live music throughout the weekend is enjoyed by all ages.
Festival Details:
The Festival is September 13-15, 2024 (held annually on the 3rd weekend of September). The festival begins at First Capitol Drive and extends North on Historic Main Street, with an abundance of free parking nearby. Artists apply to participate, are juried, then those selected are invited to attend. Event preparation, planning, coordination with the City of St. Charles, and correspondence with vendors and artists is ongoing throughout the year. We utilize the tools, resources, and experience from the last 28 previous events and update as needed to complete tasks. Commitments for licenses, rentals, vendors, entertainment, volunteers, and so forth are finalized between June-September. Our board meets monthly throughout the year and as necessary closer to the event. We have committee chairs for all aspects of the operation including facilities, entertainment, program, applications, jury process, volunteers, registration, and officers. Our track record for presenting a quality fine arts festival is well known and respected throughout the region and attracts artists from all over the country.
The City of Saint Charles has supported Mosaics for 28+ years and we enjoy a positive relationship with both the city and businesses on North Main Street. In addition, the Festival Board works with the Foundry Arts Center, Blank Canvas Studios, Preferred Family Healthcare's A.R.T.C. Program (Achieving Recovery Through Creativity), and Schools in the area to come together for the Fine Art Festival. We continue to be the Premiere Fine Arts Festival in Saint Charles County.