While walking down Main Street on Aug. 23, locals would have heard the buzz of people chatting and the sound of local artists playing their favorite songs.

Friday marked the 29th Annual Hays Area Art Walk. The Walk is a collection of local artists showcasing their work each year which includes music, pottery, paintings, photography and sculptures.

Many students and faculty members spent their night attending the walk.

“I think it’s important to go to the Art Walks because it supports local artists,” senior Amy Jordan said. “I think I’ve been to at least 10 of them. I enjoy the free food and the Hays Art Council exhibit.”

Sophomore Brandy Pfeifer thinks many students would enjoy it.

“If you’re artsie then this is something for you,” Pfeifer said. “I enjoy going every year and seeing the different artwork.”

Pfeifer’s favorite exhibits were the oil paintings.

Science teacher David Pollock also enjoys going to the art walks.

“I haven’t been to a lot of art walks but it’s an enjoyable time getting to see all the local work and friends,” Pollock said.

The art walk is a way to promote local businesses and help local artists get their names out there.

Local musicians, Chad Foust and Cole Morse were singing and playing their guitars at the Walk. The two were promoting a show for Foust’s band, the “ToneMeister”, at the Sip-N-Spin on Aug. 23.

“I’ve been here for eight years,” Foust said. “This is a way to get your name out, and this also shows people that there is more to do on a Friday night than go out drinking at the bars.”

Morse enjoys playing at walks because he enjoys seeing people out and about.

“Walks are also good for businesses,” Morse said.

Local boutique and tea shop, Indigo owner, Vipawan Thangsuwan decided to use the walk for business by staying open later.

“I wasn’t expecting so many people,” Thangsuwan said. “The walk brings so many people to town and it’s a special event. This is the first time I decided to stay open but I would definitely do it again because it was great how much business it brought.”

The walk was also a learning experience for senior Shelby Matlock, who is in career exploration with Brenda Meder at the Hays Art Council.

“I came tonight because I thought it would be a great way to see how the Hays Arts Council is helping with the Art Walk,” Matlock said. “I enjoy seeing and talking with all the people here who are enjoying the arts.”

14snansel@usd489.com