Donna Elliot
Contributed

The Art Alliance of Idyllwild (AAI) held its annual member meeting and mingle Wednesday, June 30. AAI President Cyn Grady introduced the current members of the board of directors. She also thanked its members and Idyllwild’s business community for the generous support it receives throughout the year.

Each year at this meeting, the alliance reveals the “Artist of the Year” award winner. This accolade is given to the artist who receives the highest number of points calculated by the type of ribbons won at the AAI’s judged shows.

The 2020 Artist of the Year is Cher Townsend, who received a $100 FERRO gift card as her award. To see some of her art and that of previous winners, visit the “Artist of the Year” page on the AAI’s website.

Crucial to the continuing success of the AAI is the appointment of a new president from January 2022. Grady’s term expires at the end of December.

The new president will have the benefit of and guidance from past presidents and board members. A strong board and a supply of committed volunteers are in place. This is an opportunity for someone to build on past successes and yet place their own stamp on this nonprofit. There is no need to be an artist, but enthusiasm and organizational skills are useful. Anyone interested may obtain further information at artinidyllwild@gmail.com.

The Alliance invites the community to its “Eye of the Artist” event Saturday, July 10 from noon to 4 p.m. in IdyPark (in the middle of town). This judged art show offers people the opportunity to buy raffle tickets and then place them at the piece of art they wish to win. A silent auction is also part of this fundraising event.

Ready for some great live music? If so, we encourage you to join us at the third-annual “Call of the Wyld” Music and Art Festival Saturday, Aug. 28, from noon to 7 p.m. in the back of Town Hall. Local musicians will provide entertainment while artist booths offer an array of original art. Refreshments and food will be available for purchase.

The 23rd-annual Art Walk & Wine Tasting is Saturday, Oct. 9. Up to 20 wineries will grace the town with their award-winning wines while artist booths dot the town from Village Center to Fern Valley. Live music and a free shuttle service ensure that art and wine lovers enjoy the entire day. The art walk is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wine will be served from 2 to 5 p.m. The AAI expects a sellout crowd, and with limited tickets available, you are encouraged to purchase tickets at the lower early-bird price of $30 (for AAI members and groups of 15 or more) and $35 for the general public. Ticket prices increase Sept. 15. Purchase your tickets online at www.artinidyllwild.org or at the AAI Gallery & Visitors Center, 26364 Saunders Meadow Rd., open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.